October - Opal, Tourmaline

October - Opal, Tourmaline

BACK TO ALL CHARTS

IGS may receive customer referral fees from the companies listed in this page.

Birthstones chart summary

October

Opals are in a class by themselves. As a species, opal is so unique its patterns have their own descriptive vocabulary. More than any other gem, each opal is distinctly individual. Opals are also the most delicate gemstones commonly worn and require special care.

  • Symbolism

    Perhaps due to their dynamic appearance, opals are associated with light and magic. As such, some credited opals with healing properties, especially for the eyes. Some believed that opals could even make the wearer invisible. While some cling to negative superstitions about opals, others wear them for good luck.

  • Color

    Some opals can display the phenomenon known as play-of-color, dazzling flashes of color that move as the stone is turned. Opals are the only gems that can show this effect, but not all opals do.

  • Shop for...
LEARN ABOUT OPAL
BACK TO ALL CHARTS

Never Stop Learning

When you join the IGS community, you get trusted diamond & gemstone information when you need it.

Become a Member

Get Gemology Insights

Get started with the International Gem Society’s free guide to gemstone identification. Join our weekly newsletter & get a free copy of the Gem ID Checklist!