A birthstone is associated with each month of the year. Various myths and legends refer to the birthstones’ healing powers and therapeutic effects. However in modern times, it makes the selection of jewellery much simpler when personalizing a gift.

For those born in October, there are two choices of birthstone – opal and tourmaline.

First is the colourful opal, considered to be one of the most bewitching of all gemstones.  It flashes brilliant colours with every movement.  In ancient times, opal was regarded as the “Queen of Gems” because it encompassed the colours of all other gems.

Each gem is unique with a one-of-a-kind colour combination.

Opal symbolizes purity, innocence and hope, including the metaphysical properties of confidence and faithfulness.

The word comes from the Latin “opalus” which means “precious jewel”.

 

 

Secondly, Tourmaline has become a favourite gemstone among jewellery designers and gem collectors all over the world.

Tourmaline means “mixed stone” as it is known for displaying several colours in the same gemstone.

These bicolour or tricolour gems are formed in many combinations; gemstones with clear colour are highly prized.

One multi-variety is known as “Watermelon Tourmaline” which features green, pinks and white colour bands.

Tourmaline is mined in Brazil, USA, East Africa and Afghanistan.

 

Sources: EarthSky and American Gem Society