October has two birthstones: opal and tourmaline. That means October babies are lucky to have double the options to choose from! Let's learn about the history, sources and fun facts for both stones, how their quality is judged, and how to choose between them.
Photo: GIA
Where Does Opal Come From?
Opal's name is believed to come from the Sanskrit upala, meaning "precious stone," and its iconic play-of-color has been adored for centuries. Opal is found in dozens of locations around the world, including the United States, but Australia is the world's most productive source and Ethiopia is a major newer one. Mexico is another important source, known for its iconic "Mexican fire opal."
Ethiopian opal, found in the 2000s, comes mostly in white, yellow and orange shades, and much of it is hydrophane, meaning it absorbs water. In fact, Ethiopian opal can contain up to about 20% water by weight! Hydrophane opals tend to show a softer, flowing play-of-color and are usually more affordable than their counterparts. However, they are the most sensitive to liquids and temperature changes, so they need more care.
Australia produces the most coveted opals in the world, in white, black and even boulder varieties. Australian opals show a shifting rainbow play-of-color and are mostly non-hydrophane, meaning they don't absorb water, so while they tend to be more expensive, they can be better suited to everyday wear.
Photo: GIA
What Is Tourmaline?
Tourmaline is October's second birthstone, a gemstone that comes in almost every color of the rainbow, though pink is the color most associated with this month. Its name comes from the Sinhalese word toramalli, meaning "stone with mixed colors."
Tourmaline has a centuries-long history of being mistaken for other gemstones, from red rubellite being confused for ruby to green tourmaline being mistaken for emerald by a Spanish conquistador in 1500s Brazil. In fact, it wasn't until the 1800s that tourmaline was recognized as its own mineral species. Each color was also believed to have its own healing properties, with the pink variety representing love, compassion and gentleness.
Like many other gemstones, tourmaline is found all over the world, including Maine and California in the United States, but Brazil is its most common source. Tourmaline is also harder than opal, at 7 to 7.5 on the Mohs hardness scale versus opal's 5 to 6.5, so it's the better option if you tend to be tough on your jewelry!
Photo: GIA
How Is Opal and Tourmaline Quality Judged?
Unlike diamond, ruby, sapphire and emerald, opal and tourmaline aren't graded on standardized lab scales, so quality comes down to color, clarity and origin, and unless it's a highly prized variety (like Paraiba tourmaline) you often won't see a certificate for the stone.
Opals can vary dramatically in color, clarity and weight from stone to stone, so it's best to study a stone in person to understand it. The driving factors between stones are usually provenance and color (both body color and play-of-color), which determine pricing and rarity. While there are ways to tell stones from different locations apart, it's best to work with a trusted supplier to cover all your bases.
Tourmaline's quality revolves around its color, clarity and transparency. Even pink tourmalines vary in color: purer, more saturated pinks, like a bright bubblegum pink, are priced higher than brownish pinks. It's all based on rarity!
Photo: GIA
Opal or Tourmaline: Which Do I Choose?
The easiest way to choose between your two birthstones is to pick whichever stone you think is prettier! Opal's play-of-color can be hit or miss for some, and it's also important to keep in mind that opal is the softer of the two. If you do choose opal and tend to be rough on your jewelry, Australian opal is your best bet, and even then you'll want to keep an eye on it!
Maybe you want tourmaline but don't like the color pink! In that case, go for any color of tourmaline you like. It's still your birthstone, and this lets you build your piece around the color you're drawn to most. Tourmaline is also harder and more scratch resistant, so it's the better option if you know you'll wear it daily. You'll also find tourmaline in more shapes and sizes, while opal is usually cut as a cabochon (a smooth, domed stone), often in oval or free-form shapes.
Birthstones with Shahla Karimi
Whichever birthstone you choose, we're here to help. Our Birthstone Collection offers pieces you can set with tourmaline for October, and for opal or a one-of-a-kind design, our bespoke team can create something just for you. Have a look at both below, and reach out if you have any questions. We're always happy to help create the most special piece to represent you or your loved ones!
SHOP THE BIRTHSTONE COLLECTION
Leave a comment