Unveiling the Mysteries of Opal: October’s Birthstone

Opal, with its mesmerising play of colours, is a gemstone that has captivated humans for centuries. As October’s birthstone, it holds a special place in the hearts of those born in this month. But what exactly is opal? How is it formed? And what are its unique properties and meanings? In this blog post, we will delve into the mysteries of opal birthstone, exploring its origins, characteristics, and symbolism. Join us on this journey as we uncover the secrets behind this enchanting gemstone.

The Formation of Opal

Sedimentary Opal

• Formed through the deposition of silica-rich gel in sedimentary environments
• Commonly found in areas with ancient lakes, rivers, or oceans
• Can contain fossils or other organic materials

Hydrophane Opal

• Formed through the deposition of silica from hot water solutions
• Often found in veins or cavities of rocks
• More fragile than sedimentary and susceptible to changed humidity conditions

The Characteristics of Opal

Play of Colours

• Opal’s most distinctive feature
• Caused by the diffraction and interference of light
• Can display a wide range of colours, including red, blue, green, and yellow

Hardness and Durability

• Opal and pearl have the same hardness (5.5-6.5 on Moh’s scale of hardness)
• Opal set in opal rings need to be set for their function – everyday ring versus occasional wear ring so they last generations
• An everyday ring should have a setting that protects the opal from accidental knocks

Opal Care

• Australian opals should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild detergent and can be cleaned in an ionic cleaner
• Opal doublet jewellery should be cleaned by a specialist and not submerged in water or other cleaners.
• If worn every day, opal ring gems may require specialist repolishing following 5-10 years of wear

The Symbolism of Opal

Love and Passion

• Opal is associated with love, passion, and desire
• Believed to intensify emotions and enhance relationships
• Often given as a gift to express deep affection

Creativity and Inspiration

• Opal is thought to stimulate creativity and inspire originality
• Encourages artistic expression and innovation
• Used by artists, writers, and musicians for inspiration

Healing and Protection

• Opal is believed to have healing properties for various ailments, especially those of eye
• Provides emotional support and aids in overcoming trauma
• Offers protection against negative energies and psychic attacks

Conclusion

Opal is a precious stone associated with luck, affection, and protection. Its vibrant hues symbolise optimism and happiness, and it is reputed to attract favourable circumstances to the wearer. Opal is also thought to grant the wearer the capacity to perceive the history, current events, and forthcoming occurrences, rendering it a potent wellspring of wisdom.

Whether you were born in October or simply admire its exquisite allure, opal occupies a significant position in the realm of gemstones. From its origin to its distinct attributes and symbolism, we trust that this blog entry has illuminated the enigmatic nature of opal. Thus, whenever you behold an opal, bear in mind the hidden revelations it possesses and the narratives it conveys.