Unlocking the Enchanting Opal: October’s Birthstone
October is in full swing, it brings with it a mesmerizing gemstone that has captured hearts for centuries – the opal. Known for its kaleidoscope of colors and mysterious allure, opal is a gemstone that has enchanted people throughout history. Here at Tobin Jewelers, both of our showrooms have opal pieces!
The Multifaceted Beauty of Opal
Opal is renowned for its unique play of color, often referred to as “opalescence.” This phenomenon occurs due to the intricate internal structure of the gemstone. Opal contains microscopic spheres of silica, which diffract light to create an ever-changing display of colors. It is this captivating interplay of colors that makes opal unlike any other gemstone. Opals can exhibit a spectrum of hues, from fiery reds and bright oranges to soothing blues and tranquil greens. The opals at Tobin vary as well – we know for a fact, that no two opals in our showrooms match, they’re that unique!
Opal’s Rich History and Symbolism
The opal has a rich history dating back to ancient civilizations. The Romans associated opals with love and hope, believing the gem possessed the power to ward off evil. It was also cherished by the ancient Greeks, who believed opals bestowed the gift of prophecy upon those who wore them. In the Middle Ages, opals were believed to bring luck and happiness. However, opals also garnered a superstitious reputation in the 19th century when a famous novel associated them with bad luck. Fortunately, this superstition has largely faded, and opals are once again celebrated for their beauty!
Opal as a Birthstone
Opal was officially declared as one of October’s birthstones in 1912 by the American National Retail Jewelers Association, now known as Jewelers of America. Since the opal is the birthstone of October, here at Tobin Jewelers we are offering 25% off all opal jewelry! People born in October are fortunate to have a birthstone that represents a wide array of qualities, making it a versatile and cherished gem for those celebrating their birthdays in this autumn month!
Opal’s enchanting play of color, rich history, and symbolic significance make it a perfect gift for anyone! Whether you’re an October-born individual looking to embrace your birthstone’s characteristics or simply a lover of opal’s mesmerizing beauty, this gemstone is truly a treasure! Stop into our Mequon or New Berlin location to shop our selection of opal jewelry today!