Opal Jewellery – The October Birthstone
Share
Opals are one of the most mesmerising gemstones in the world, famed for their play of colour that shimmers like rainbows, fireworks, and even galaxies. Known as the traditional birthstone for October, the opal has a fascinating history filled with legends, superstition, and royal approval.
The Formation of Opals
Formed over millions of years, opals are created from a mixture of silicon dioxide and water. Rainwater seeps into the earth, carrying silica from sandstone deep into cracks. As the water evaporates, it leaves behind silica deposits that, over time, harden to create the glowing opal gems we admire today.
Australia is the world’s leading supplier of opals, providing around 95% of the global supply. Coober Pedy is known as the opal capital of the world. Lightning Ridge is the place that produces rare and valuable black opals. Lastly Boulder opals can be found in Queens land. These are distincr areas that prduce different types of opals.
Folklore and Legends
Opals have long been regarded as mystical stones, often used in meditation and spiritual practices. Their ever-changing colours symbolise inspiration, transformation and hope.
Romans believed opals stood for purity and good fortune.
Greeks thought they granted prophecy and foresight.
Arab traditions belieived that opals fell from the heavens in lightning storms.
Opals have also been associated with creativity, imagination, and emotional freedom. However, not all stories were positive. Sir Walter Scott’s 1829 novel Anne of Geierstein linked opals with misfortune, sparking superstitions that lingered for decades.
Queen Victoria and the Opal Revival
In the late 19th century, Queen Victoria restored the opal’s reputation. A passionate admirer of the gem, she built a beautiful collection and gifted opal jewellery to her daughters and friends.
What royalty wore set the fashion for the time — and opals became highly sought after once again. A pair of Queen Victoria's opal earrings is still on display today at the South Australia Museum, proving just how enduring her love for these gemstones was.
Modern Jewellery and Symbolism
Today, opals are prized for their individuality — no two stones are ever the same. From dramatic Black Opals with flashes of green and red, to the soft glow of White Opals, they remain a favourite choice for rings, pendants, bracelets, and earrings.
Opals are also believed to symbolise love, originality, and emotional expression, making them a thoughtful gift for October birthdays or anniversaries.
Caring for Opal Jewellery
Opals are softer than many other gemstones, so a little care goes a long way to keeping them beautiful:
Store your opals in a soft pouch or jewellery box
Clean gently with warm water and a soft cloth — never harsh chemicals.
Avoid extreme changes in temperature.
Keep doublets and triplets a type of layered opal away from prolonged water exposure.
With the right care, your opal rings, earrings, bracelets, and necklaces will stay beautiful for generations.