The Meaning Behind The October Opal Birthstone
Each month of the year is symbolized by a specific birthstone. Each of these gems represent a month and have their very own meaning and significance to those born within those months. Most commonly, it's easy to spot a birthstone being worn in jewelry, as they're usually seen in necklaces, rings, bracelets, and earrings as a way to celebrate the wearer's own birth month, or perhaps the birth month of someone close to them such as a partner or child (via Uncommon Goods). Wearing a birthstone is also considered to be a symbol of wellness and good fortune.
The origins of birthstones date back to the 5th century, when ancient scholars tied in the meaning of birthstones to the Bible. In the book of Exodus a high priest named Aaron wore a breastplate with 12 jewels on it, which appears to coincide with the 12 months of the calendar year, per Reiner's Fine Jewelry.
These jewels included stones such as arnet, amethyst, citrine, ruby, emerald, and turquoise. Of course, those born in the month of October know their birthstone to be opal.
This history of the opal birthstone has conflicting meanings
Those born in the month of October, under both the Libra and Scorpio zodiac sign, have been assigned opal as their birthstone. Opal is one of the most stunning stones, as it can be classified as both black and white, but also includes flecks of colors such as red, orange, blue, green, and purple. Their clarity can be deemed opaque, translucent, or even transparent, making them one of the most versatile gems (via Almanac).
Opals were once considered very rare as they were exclusively found in present-day Slovenia before being discovered in Australia in the 19th century, per Moon Magic. They were considered to have strong magical properties, including bringing good fortune to those lucky enough to own one of the gems. However, they did gain a bit of a reputation as well when they were associated with the evil eye in Russian lore, and they were deemed cursed in Sir Walter Scott's 1829 novel "Anne of Geierstein," per Opal Auctions.
However, these days opal is considered one of the most beautiful stones with many people adding them to their crystal collection and those born in October wearing them proudly as their birthstone.
Opal represents luck and creativity
According to Almanac, many believe that the name opal comes from the Indian word upala, meaning "precious stone," while others believe that the term began in Greece with the word opallios, which means "to see a change in color." Romans once believed that opals held strong powers and contained the positive benefits of all of the colored stones due to their multicolored appearance. The Romans also called the gem the Cupid Stone and believed that it was a symbol of love, romance, and passion. Ancient Greeks also deemed opal very powerful and believed that those who owned the stone would be able to see into the future.
Some of the traits that are said to be held by those with the October opal birthstone include being hopeful, motivated, and often being a source of inspiration to those around you (via Crystals and Jewelry). Opal is also a stone represented by innocence and creativity, and is said to protect anyone who wears it from negative energy or ill will. Colors explained adds that wearing opal jewelry to an important event like a job interview or a big exam may help you feel calm as well as attract positivity and offer you good luck.
It appears that October's opal gem is full of fascinating history and amazing benefits for those who are lucky enough to call it their birthstone.