Discovering Two Brilliant Birthstones
As nature’s palette shifts from the lush greens of summer to the fiery reds and golden yellows of autumn, we find ourselves drawn to colored gemstones that mirror this season’s radiant transformation. October is graced by two magnificent birthstones: opal and tourmaline.
In this blog, we’ll explore these gems, delving into their rich history and mythical properties. Plus, we’ll showcase a few dazzling jewelry pieces which feature these exquisite gemstones. So, let’s uncover the secrets of these mesmerizing colored gems, celebrating their unique allure.
A Quick Introduction to the Gemstones
The opal is best known for its mesmerizing play of colors, which is often referred to as “opalescence.” This unique characteristic sets opals apart from other gems, making them highly prized and admired.
Meanwhile, the tourmaline is a colored gemstone known as the “Rainbow Gem” due to its remarkable ability to occur in nearly every color of the spectrum. Tourmalines can display a single hue or even exhibit multiple colors in one gemstone, a phenomenon known as “bicolor” or “multicolor” tourmaline. The tourmaline is highly sought after and celebrated for this extraordinary color diversity.
The Gemstones in History
The Opal’s Story
Both of these gems have colorful histories, reaching back to ancient times. Opals have been admired for thousands of years, with some of the earliest records dating back to ancient Rome. The Romans believed that opals held the beauty of all other precious gemstones within their radiant play of colors, associating them with good luck and protection.
However, in the Middle Ages, opals faced a turbulent reputation as superstitions arose. Their captivating color-shift was linked to magic and the supernatural, leading some to believe they brought bad luck. This led to a decline in opal's popularity during this period.
Fortunately, by the 19th century, opals experienced a revival in Europe, especially in Victorian England, where they were embraced for their unique beauty. The Art Nouveau movement further elevated opal’s status, with artists and jewelers incorporating them into exquisite pieces of jewelry.
Tourmaline’s Tale
The tourmaline has been treasured for centuries across various cultures. This gemstone's name is derived from the Sinhalese word "tura mali," which means “stone of mixed colors,” reflecting its remarkable range of hues.
Ancient Egyptians and Romans admired tourmaline for its apparent mystical properties, believing it could bring protection and insight. In the 18th century, tourmalines from Brazil became highly sought after, often mistaken for other gemstones due to their vibrant colors.
The histories of opal and tourmaline are tales of timeless fascination and enduring admiration. Their multifaceted histories continue to shine brightly, reminding us of the enduring beauty and allure of these magnificent gemstones.
Opal and Tourmaline Treasures
Now, let’s take a look at these beautiful gems in action.
First, we have this gorgeous Le Vian opal ring to consider. The round cabochon opal is set in lustrous 14-Karat Vanilla Gold and flanked by two radiant Deep Sea Blue Topaz. Smaller shining Vanilla and Chocolate Diamonds complete the piece, creating an unforgettable ensemble.
Not to be outshone, these Simon G. drop earrings show off the full radiance of paraiba tourmaline. These gemstones were only recently discovered in the 1980’s and are characterized by their intense blue-green hue. The paraiba tourmaline is encircled by sparkling white diamonds in these elegant drop earrings, making the gem’s rich color shimmer even more brightly.
Find Your Own October Gemstones at Mountz
In the world of colored gemstones, opal and tourmaline stand as October's brilliant birthstones, offering a kaleidoscope of colors and a rich history to explore. At Mountz Jewelers, we invite you to discover the perfect opal or tourmaline piece that resonates with your unique style and personality. Whether you're celebrating a birthday or simply adding a touch of elegance to your collection, our expert associates are here to assist you. Visit us today and discover the perfect colored gemstone treasure.