October Opals

The birthstone for the month of October is Opal; Opal is classified in three primary types black, white and transparent. Opals can have body colors such as colorless, yellow, brown, red or orange/fire opal. Opals of all types have obtained many myths throughout different cultures in history.

In ancient Greece, opal was believed to give the wearer the power of foresight. The Romans revered opal as the symbol of hope and purity, and believed it could protect from disease. The Ancient Arabs believed it came from heaven, and that it acquired the play of color from flashes of lightning. In the Middle Ages, opal was thought to be beneficial for eyesight, some people even believed it could render the wearer invisible.

Opal can be used in many jewelry pieces such as rings, earrings, pendants and more. It is also a wedding anniversary gemstone given as gifts on the 14th and 18th anniversary.

Opal Care and Tips:

Solid opal should be cleaned gently with mild detergent in warm water and a soft toothbrush or cloth. Avoid bleach, chemicals and cleaners. Doublets & triplets may be wiped with a damp soft cloth and mild detergent, but should never be soaked or immersed.

Contrary to popular belief, storing an opal in oil or glycerin is not recommended. It is unlikely to damage the opal, but it is unnecessary and requires tedious cleaning.

Never allow anyone to clean your opal in an ultrasonic cleaner, as the intense vibrations may cause cracking in a solid opal, and water penetration in a doublet or triplet.

If your stone loses its shine or becomes scratched, bring it back to an opal cutter. After years of wear, small scratches and scuff marks cause an opal to lose its shiny polish and become dull looking. Professional polishing can bring new life to an opal which has become dull or scratched, and we can also check for prong damage and ensure the security of the setting.