Why October Has Two Birthstones?
October is a special month for many reasons, but one standout feature is its unique status as the only month with two birthstones: Opal and Tourmaline. This rare occurrence sparks curiosity for many jewelry enthusiasts who wonder why October has the privilege of two gemstones. Well, there's more to this story than just pretty stones! Let's dive into the fascinating history behind these two sparkling treasures and why both are celebrated in October.
The tradition of birthstones is believed to have originated from ancient times, when people associated specific gemstones with the months of the year and their mystical properties. Over time, these traditions evolved, and the National Retail Jewelers Association (now known as Jewelers of America) officially assigned birthstones to each month in 1912. For most months, one stone was selected, but October was given the honor of having two – each offering unique beauty and symbolism.
Opal: The Original October Birthstone
Opal has long been cherished for its iridescent glow and mesmerizing array of colors. Known as the "Queen of Gems," opal displays an extraordinary play of color that shifts and changes in the light. This quality has made it a favorite among collectors and jewelry lovers alike.
Historically, opals were considered lucky stones, believed to possess the powers of all gemstones. Their shifting colors symbolized hope, purity, and truth. However, they were also thought to be fragile and prone to breakage, making them a bit of a delicate choice for everyday wear.
For those who love the magical allure of opal, you can find a variety of opal jewelry pieces, like stunning opal pendants and earrings, to incorporate into your collection.
Tourmaline: A Colorful Alternative
In modern times, Tourmaline was added as an alternative October birthstone. While opals are prized for their delicate play of color, tourmalines are loved for their striking range of solid hues. From vibrant pinks and greens to deep blues and purples, tourmaline is one of the most colorful gemstones available.
Tourmaline is believed to promote healing and relaxation, aligning perfectly with the calming energies of autumn. It's a versatile stone that's both durable and available in a wide variety of shades, making it a popular choice for jewelry. If you're looking for a birthstone that's a bit more resilient than opal, tourmaline is a fantastic option!
Why Two Birthstones?
The addition of two birthstones for October was a practical choice as well. With opal being delicate, many people wanted a sturdier option for daily wear. Tourmaline was selected because of its durability, wide color range, and complementary symbolism. This provided October babies with more choices, allowing them to pick the gemstone that best matched their style and needs.
At Robinson's Jewelers, we celebrate both of October's beautiful birthstones, offering a stunning array of birthstone pendants and stackable rings that feature opal, tourmaline, or even both!
Celebrate October with Opal and Tourmaline
Whether you're drawn to the mystical glow of opal or the vibrant hues of tourmaline, both of October's birthstones offer endless possibilities for creating unforgettable jewelry pieces. These stones represent the beauty and uniqueness of those born in October, providing an opportunity to celebrate their individuality with dazzling jewelry.
If you're looking to purchase a gift for someone born in October or simply want to treat yourself, visit Robinson's Jewelers to discover a wide selection of opal and tourmaline pieces that will perfectly complement any style.
Find Your Perfect October Birthstone at Robinson's Jewelers
At Robinson's Jewelers, we pride ourselves on offering a wide selection of stunning birthstone jewelry. Whether you prefer opal or tourmaline, we have something for everyone. Visit us online or in-store today to find the perfect piece that reflects the vibrant beauty of October's birthstones.