October's Birthstone is Opal
The Opal is a symbol of purity, hope and health. The well-known Roman naturalist Pliny, described the opal as being made up of the glories of the most precious gems..."the gentler fire of the ruby, the rich purple of the amethyst, the sea-green of the emerald, glittering together..."Colour: White opal has a white or light body colour with flashes of many other colours. Black opal has a black, dark blue, dark green or grey body colour with vivid flashes of colour such as red, pink and bright green - this colour variation makes every opal unique.
History: Derived from the Latin ‘opalus' - precious stone - opals were highly prized by the ancient Romans. Opal is supposed to promote love and romance, to grant wishes and personal happiness; to protect the wearer from disease and to possess the gift of prophecy. Medieval writers believed opal could render its wearer invisible when the need arose. It was also said to have a beneficial effect on eyesight and banish evil spirits.
Found in: Australia, Mexico and U.S.A.
Sometimes tourmaline, another multicoloured gemstone, is used as an October birthstone. It is not as fragile as opal and is often chosen by those who prefer faceted stones.