October birthstone is opal and its replacement gem is tourmaline. Both of the gemstones exist in a variety of colors. That is what makes them unique among all the gems. These gems are commonly used in jewelry and are preferred choices because of their beauty.
It is important to note that one should take extreme care while handling opal. That is because if it loses too many water molecules due to excess heat or direct exposure to light, the gemstone may display cracks on its surface. Similarly, one should avoid exposing it to perfume to keep it safe from harm.
October Birthstone
1. October Birthstone Opal
Opal is a soft gem with a hardness of 5.5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale. It important to keep it hydrated by keeping a small glass full of water once you are not wearing it. Opal is extremely popular for its beauty. It displays rainbow colors that are due to the presence of hydrocarbon molecules that reflect light from the gem’s surface. October birthstone Opal comes in white and black colors. The latter can actually occur in blue or green as well but is called black opal.
The word opal has its origin from the Greek “opallios,” which means “to see a change in color.” The gemstone displays a rainbow of colors when you rock it at different angles to the eyes. Its color-effect is called “play-of-color” due to that very fact. Silica, which is one of the most abundant minerals available on earth, forms the basis of the chemical composition of opal.
Australia is a huge source of top-quality opals. Ethiopia and Sudan are other famous places which supply the rough of the gemstone in large quantities.
The October birthstone opal gives liberation and autonomy. In ancient times, people thought that the gemstone had mystical powers. It gives power and ingenuity to the wearer. The gem also helps stay calm and provides self-restraint.
2. October Birthstone Tourmaline
The October birthstone tourmaline is a hard gem that comes in a range of colors. It exists in white, black, yellow, green, orange, red, brown, bi-color, and any other shade possible. In fact, it comes in the most diverse variety of colors of all the known gemstones. Tourmaline is mined throughout the world. Pakistan, Afghanistan, Nigeria, and Brazil are the most popular sources. The gemstone is commonly used in jewelry.
Tourmaline is ideal for someone seeking affection. It helps get rid of psychological stress and eases emotional discomfort. The gem can also assist in improving relationships with the people around.
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