Birthstones for October born
If you are October born, then you have two of the most stunning birthstones to choose from - Pink Tourmaline and Opal gemstones.
Tourmaline is not only a truly stunning stone but a rare one too. It is also one of the few gems that can be found in almost every color. The name "tourmaline" comes from the Sinhalese words tura mali, which mean 'stone of mixed colors'.
Tourmaline stones are found in many distinct colors:
- Black Tourmaline
- Brown tourmaline
- Green Tourmaline
- Pink Tourmaline
- Blue Tourmaline
- Paraíba tourmaline
- Achroite (or colorless tourmaline)
- Watermelon Tourmaline
Tourmaline is mainly mined in Brazil, Sri Lanka, Nigeria, Mozambique, Madagascar, Afghanistan, Pakistan and the United States.
Tourmaline gemstones are sought after by fashionistas because of their sheer range of color options combined with excellent hardness qualities - of 7 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale. Tourmaline stones are not only a very desirable birthstone jewellery but also considered a huge fashion statement both be designers and discerning customers.
Ancient magicians used tourmaline as a talisman to protect against negative energy and evil forces. Today, many still believe that it can shield against radiation, pollutants, toxins, and negative thoughts.
History of Tourmaline
Legend has it that the Egyptians believed that tourmaline obtained its famed array of colors when, on its journey up from the Earth’s centre, it passed through a rainbow.
When you buy Tourmaline, just remember that no two tourmaline gemstones will be exactly alike. This is why it is a one-of-a-kind gift for someone celebrating their birthday in October. Or, better still, gift it to yourself! It's also a perfect eighth wedding anniversary gift.
The sheer variety of colors and myriad qualities makes it extremely suitable for all styles and budgets of jewellery. When buying tourmaline, the basic criteria you need to look for are color, clarity, cut, and carat weight.
Color
Generally, darker-toned tourmaline that appears black is priced lower than brightly colored stones. Pink tourmaline is one of the most desired colors.
Clarity
Inclusions are common in tourmaline. It’s not uncommon for red or pink tourmaline to display visible inclusions.
Cut
Because of tourmaline forms in slender, columnar crystals, many gemstones have long, irregular shapes.
Carat
Tourmaline comes in a range of sizes. But colour is more highly valued than size, so a small, brightly coloured gemstone is preferred over a large, dark one.
So, when buying Tourmaline, it is best you go to a reputed jeweller. Tourmaline set in sterling silver is considered best as the colour of the stone does not get diminished.
Opal, the word originates from the Greek word opallios, which meant “to see a change in colour.”
A variety of Opal gemstones are available but the most popular ones are Fire Opal and Boulder Opal.
Opal is mainly found in Australia and was discovered around 1850. Opal is also mined in Mexico, Brazil, Honduras, Ethiopia, the Czech Republic and parts of the U.S.
The Opal a very delicate gemstone and can crack or “craze” under extreme temperature or direct light.
So, opal jewellery needs extra care. This precious gemstone has been associated with good luck. and thus remains a popular choice even today.
History
According to Arabic legend, opals fell from the sky in bolts of lightning. Australian aborigines, meanwhile, believed that the creator came to Earth on a rainbow, leaving these colorful stones where his feet touched the ground.
During the Middle Ages, people believed that the opal possessed the powers of each gemstone whose color appeared in its sheen, making it a very lucky stone to wear.
However, Opal’s kaleidoscopic play-of-color can suit many changing moods and tastes to make this gemstone appropriate for anyone. So, while it makes a stunning birthday gift, it is also the traditional gift to celebrate the 14th wedding anniversary.
Opals can be evaluated by color, clarity, cut and carat weight. But these unique gemstones also have several additional conditions to consider.
Color
Color is the key. Dark backgrounds provide more contrast against vivid play-of-color, making black opal more highly valued than milky white varieties.
Pattern
The pattern is another factor. Descriptive names like “stained glass,” “peacock,” “rolling fire,” and “Chinese writing” distinguish opal patterns.
Clarity
Different opal varieties have varying clarity standards. Crystal opals should be transparent, while opacity makes black opals more valuable.
Cut
Fine opals are often cut into irregular shapes to emphasize play-of-color. Opals should be cut cabochon with rounded domes.
Caring for your Opal jewellery
Due to high water content, Opal can easily crack or “craze” under extreme temperatures or direct light. Opal gems and jewellery should be stored in a place where they aren’t exposed to high temperatures or low humidity in order to avoid dehydration and crazing. Store them separately in a soft cloth bag to avoid being scratched by other jewellery.
So, when buying Opal, it's best you go to a reputed jeweller.
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In our next article, we will be covering the birthstones for those born in the month of November.