Opal Guide - October's Birthstone

Everything You Need to Know About Opals — Symbolism, History, Styles & Care Tips

October babies are blessed with one of the most mesmerizing birthstones: the opal. Known for its rainbow shimmer and rich symbolism, opal has people for centuries. Whether you’re gifting a loved one or searching for your own birthstone jewelry, this guide covers everything you need to know about opal's meaning, history, types, and how to wear and care for it.

Looking for handcrafted opal jewelry? Explore our Opal Collection made with genuine stones and dainty gold settings.

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What Is Opal? The October Birthstone

Opal is one of nature’s most mesmerizing gems — a kaleidoscope of light formed from silica-rich rainwater that seeped into ancient rock.
Over millions of years, that water dried, leaving behind silica spheres that scatter light into the rainbow flashes known as play-of-color or fire.

• Birthstone for: October
• Zodiac sign: Libra, Scorpio
• Anniversary stone: 14th year
• Chakra association: Crown & heart
• Colors: White, pink, black, fire, crystal, and boulder varieties
• Mohs Hardness: 5.5–6.5 (soft and delicate)
• Composition: Hydrated silica with 3–21% natural water content.
• Etymology: The name comes from Sanskrit upala, meaning “precious stone,” later adopted in Latin as opalus.

Fun fact: Every opal is unique — no two stones ever share the same pattern or fire.

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Opal Meaning & Symbolism

Symbolism	Meaning
Hope & Purity	Clears negative energy, brings emotional clarity
Creativity & Passion	Inspires imagination, artistry & self-expression
Love & Loyalty	A talisman of romance and heartfelt commitment
Protection	Believed to ward off evil and amplify good energy

Spiritual Meaning: Many believe opals enhance intuition, align chakras, and strengthen cosmic connections.

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The Meaning and Symbolism of Opal

Opal has been cherished across cultures as a stone of hope, creativity, and transformation. Today, opal is seen as a symbol of inspiration, confidence, and emotional balance — perfect for those born in October, or anyone seeking to amplify their inner light.

The History & Lore of Opals

• Ancient Rome: Symbol of love and hope; called "Cupid’s Stone"
• Arabian legend: Formed from lightning strikes
• Aboriginal Australia: Thought to be the creator’s footprints on Earth
• Europe (Middle Ages): Associated with vision, prophecy, and good fortune
• Greeks: Thought opals granted foresight and protection.
• Queen Victoria famously wore opal jewelry daily, reviving its popularity in the 1800s after it was briefly stigmatized in literature.

 

Types of Opal: Which One Reflects You?

Each opal type has its own beauty, energy, and story.

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How to Choose the Right Opal Jewelry

1. Pick the Metal That Complements the Gem

• Gold: Accentuates opal’s warmth and fire.

• Sterling Silver: Brings out cooler tones and blues.

• Rose Gold: Enhances pink and pastel shades — perfect for Peruvian Pink Opal.

2. Find Your Meaning

Each opal tells a story — choose yours for:

• Creativity & Renewal – Ethiopian or Crystal Opal

• Love & Calm – Peruvian Pink Opal

• Courage & Strength – Black or Fire Opal

Styling Tips: How to Wear Opal Jewelry

Opal's magical iridescence pairs beautifully with any wardrobe and makes it incredibly versatile

• Layer necklaces: Combine dainty opal pendants with gold chains of different lengths.

• Mix gemstones: Opal pairs beautifully with moonstone, pearl, or rose quartz for a soft, bohemian look.

• Minimalist tip: Let one opal statement piece shine — like a single iridescent drop necklace.

✨ Stylist idea: Stack a pink opal bracelet with a white opal necklace for a romantic monochrome set.

     Rose gold brings out opal’s warm flashes, while white gold highlights its cool tones

✨ Browse our handcrafted Opal Necklace Collection designed for layering and gifting.

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Opal Care Tips

Avoid

• Extreme temperature changes (may cause “crazing”).

• Chemicals (perfume, lotions, household cleaners).

• Swimming or showering with opal jewelry.

• Don’t use ultrasonic or steam cleaners.

•  Direct sunlight and moisture-free storage — opals contain water and can dry out

Tip: Store opal jewelry away from harder gemstones to prevent scratches and keep it away from moisture and water. Moisture can take away an opal's color and iridescence. To keep your opal safe, do not exercise or shower while wearing your opal jewelry, and do not leave it in a steamy bathroom.

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Is Opal a Good Gift?

Absolutely. Opal is not only meaningful for October birthdays, but also makes a wonderful gift for:

• 14th anniversaries
• New beginnings (symbolizing rebirth and renewal)
• Creative spirits or artists
• Anyone drawn to mystical or spiritual stones

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Shop our Handmade Genuine Opal Jewelry

At Lolabean, we handcraft real gemstone jewelry using dainty, high-quality materials like:

• 14k gold-filled, sterling silver, rose gold filled, and 14k solid gold chains
• Genuine Ethiopian opals
• Minimalist, layering-friendly designs

Each piece is infused with meaning and made to last. Shop our most-loved pieces below:

• Opal Birthstone Necklace – Best Seller
• October Birthstone Bracelet 
• Mini Pink Opal Stud Earrings – Everyday Wear

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Common Opal Questions (FAQ)

Can opals get wet?

Opals contain natural water (often 3–10%), so avoid long exposure to water. Occasional splashes are fine, but constant moisture can dull the stone or lead to cracking over time.

Are opals durable enough for everyday wear?

Opal is 5.5–6.5 on the Mohs scale, softer than many gems. Daily wear is possible with protective settings (like bezels); remove during workouts, cleaning, or rough activities.

What makes opal so unique?

Its rainbow “play-of-color” or "fire" comes from microscopic silica spheres that diffract light — no two opals ever look the same.

Why do some opals look cloudy or lose color?

Long exposure to heat, dryness, or intense light can reduce brilliance. Store in a cool, slightly humid place and avoid strong heat.

What’s the difference between Ethiopian and Australian opal?

Australian opals form in sedimentary rock and are typically more stable. Ethiopian Welo opals are hydrophane — they can absorb water and temporarily change appearance when wet.

Are opals lucky or unlucky?

Despite a brief 19th-century superstition, opal has long symbolized love, creativity, and protection. Queen Victoria helped restore its reputation by wearing and gifting opals.

How should I clean my opal jewelry?

Use a soft damp cloth and mild soap if needed. Avoid ultrasonic/steam cleaners, harsh chemicals, and high heat. Dry fully before storing.

How should opals be stored?

Keep in a soft pouch or lined box, separate from harder stones. For long-term storage, a slightly humid environment helps prevent drying or crazing.

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Opal vs. Tourmaline — Which October Birthstone Is Right for You?

Both opal and pink tourmaline are October birthstones—but they offer very different looks and wear characteristics.

Feature	Opal	Tourmaline
Appearance	Milky body with iridescent play-of-color	Transparent, vibrant hues (pink, green, watermelon)
Symbolism	Love, inspiration, creativity	Balance, strength, compassion
Hardness (Mohs)	5.5–6.5 (delicate)	7–7.5 (more durable)
Origin (common)	Australia, Ethiopia, Peru	Brazil, Afghanistan, USA
Best for	Dreamy, ethereal styles	Bold color and daily wear

If you love soft, luminous color shifts and a touch of magic, choose opal. If you prefer bright, durable color, tourmaline is a fantastic everyday choice.

✨ Explore: The Opal Collection

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Final Thoughts: Why Opal Captures the Heart

With its ever-changing beauty and deep emotional resonance, opal remains one of the most cherished gemstones. Whether worn for its spiritual symbolism, its rarity, or just its undeniable charm, opal jewelry is a timeless treasure.