October's birthstone is the opal. Opals are such beautiful stones. According to Wikipedia, opals are an amorphous form of silica, similar to quartz. Amorphous means its a non-crystalline solid. Silica is the common name for silicon dioxide, which is known for its hardness and found in nature as sand and quartz. It has many uses from production of glass to optical fibers to porcelain. Opal is a mineraloid, not a mineral. This structure makes opals diffract light and they come in a variety of colors, however white and green are the most common. Australia is the primary producer of opals; 97% of the world's supply.
According to the International Gem Society, opals are the most delicate gems commonly worn and require special care to insure their health and longevity. The main precaution one should take is to ensure that the stone's environment contains adequate humidity. So, if you live in a dry climate or keep them in a dehumidified room you should store your opal jewelry in a plastic bag with a damp cloth. Also, Opals can withstand a wide range of temperatures but should not be exposed to sudden temperature changes because it can cause the stone to crack. Furthermore, opal are best for earrings, broaches and other jewelry that is will have less contact with other objects, like a ring might. But, if you have an opal ring, you can always have it polished to remove the scratches that will inevitably occur.
As for the symbolism of opals, Gemselect.com states that opals are "regarded as a stone strongly associated with the emotions, including love, passion and spontaneity. Opal is said to aid in visualization, imagination, dreams, and healing." Opals help the wearer to see possibilities and discover a broader view. Opal gemstones increase your imagination and dreams, and also assist in general healing.
Unfortunately, I don't have any in my store as of yet, but I would love to find a supplier. In the meantime, here's some opal jewelry that I like a lot. Let me know if you agree!
I like this ring because of the black diamond outline. I could wear this with SO many things.
I still love long necklaces. This one is lovely, soft and romantic.
Ribbon necklaces are so cute. This necklace only has one section that is opals, but the other gems that are matched with the opals seem perfectly coordinated.
These opals have a lot of fire color in them. It looks great with the gold filled wire and the lovely vermeil charm. This bracelet is so feminine. I love it.
Another feminine bracelet. Aquamarine is one of my favorite gems and it looks great with these fire opals. The delicate sterling silver findings really create cohesion between the two types of gemstones.
This bracelet is so interesting. The design of the metal is unique. But, more so, the boulder opal is is really amazing. A boulder opal is a solid opal and occurs as thin veins of precious opal in cracks and cavities of ironstone. During processing, the stone is cut leaving the natural host rock as backing. According to the Etsy listing for this bracelet, the boulder opal has a layer of clear quartz on top of it to magnify the beauty of the stone.
