Historical Origins of October’s Birthstones

Opal: The Stone of Fire and Mystery

Opal’s history traces back to ancient civilizations. Roman scholar Pliny the Elder described opals in 75 AD as combining “the finest possible colors” of all gems. During the Middle Ages, opal was considered the “eye stone” due to beliefs it could make the wearer invisible when wrapped in a bay leaf. This association with vision and mysticism made it a favorite among seers and royalty alike.

Australia’s Lightning Ridge became the world’s primary source of opal in the 19th century, producing the famed black opals with their striking play-of-color. Despite a brief superstition in the Middle Ages that opals brought bad luck (thanks to a misrepresented novel), the gem remains a beloved choice for its ethereal beauty.

Tourmaline: The Rainbow Gem

Tourmaline’s story begins in Sri Lanka, where Dutch traders in the 1600s encountered vibrant green stones they called “turmali,” meaning “mixed gems.” The gem gained scientific recognition in the 18th century when Brazilian miners discovered electric green and pink varieties. When this gemstone was introduced to Europe, it became a favorite among royalty. Notably, Chinese Empress Dowager Cixi adored pink tourmaline, leading to a surge in its popularity in Asia.

A fascinating historical footnote: Early Spanish conquistadors in Brazil actually mistook green tourmaline for emerald, a confusion that persisted until mineralogists properly identified tourmaline as a distinct species in the 1790s.

Why Does October Have Two Birthstones?

October’s dual birthstones—opal and tourmaline—reflect both tradition and practicality. Originally, only opal represented October when the first standardized birthstone list was introduced in 1912 by the National Association of Jewelers.

In 1952, the National Association of Jewelers added tourmaline to offer a more durable and less feminine alternative to the more delicate opal, which some felt was too fragile for daily wear and too stereotypically feminine in appearance. This decision provided October-born individuals with more choices to suit different styles, budgets, and preferences, a tradition of multiple birthstones that also existed in ancient times to increase variety and accessibility.

Tourmaline vs. Opal: Key Differences at a Glance

Symbolism: What Do October’s Birthstones Represent?

Opal: Hope, Purity, and Cosmic Connection

Opal’s shifting colors have made it a symbol of hope and creativity across cultures. In Arabic tradition, opals were believed to fall from heaven in lightning flashes. Victorian jewelers frequently used opals in engagement rings to represent fidelity and confident hope for the future.

Modern crystal healers associate opal with emotional expression and authenticity, making it meaningful jewelry for those embracing personal transformation. Its connection to the cosmos (resembling distant galaxies) adds a layer of celestial symbolism perfect for dreamers and visionaries.

Tourmaline: Protection, Balance, and Emotional Healing

Different tourmaline colors carry distinct meanings:

• Pink (Rubellite): Love and emotional healing
• Green (Verdelite): Prosperity and connection to nature
• Watermelon (Bi-color): Balance and reconciliation

Ancient mystics believed tourmaline could protect against negative energy, while modern wearers often choose it as a talisman for stress relief. Its piezoelectric properties (generating electricity under pressure) reinforce its reputation as a stone of energy and action.

Popular October’s Birthstone Jewelry Designs

Final Thoughts: Celebrating October’s Double Blessing

Whether drawn to opal’s celestial dance or tourmaline’s vibrant spectrum, October’s birthstones offer twice the reason to celebrate. These gems provide endless possibilities—from classic opal pendants to bold tourmaline statement rings, or even creative designs blending both October’s birthstones. For those born in this golden month, these treasures serve as perfect reminders to embrace life’s beautiful transitions—just like October itself, gracefully shifting between seasons while showcasing nature’s most dazzling colors.

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1. Schorl

Schorl, a black variety of tourmaline, is a mineral in various geological environments, such as granite, pegmatites, and metamorphic rocks. The name “schorl” is derived from a German word meaning “village” or “district” due to its widespread occurrence. People highly value it for its aesthetic appeal and widely use it in jewelry. Additionally, schorl possesses unique properties that make it valuable in scientific applications, thanks to its piezoelectric characteristics. Beyond its practical uses, people also believe schorl has metaphysical properties, such as providing protection and grounding, as well as absorbing negative energy. These qualities make it popular among those seeking a sense of calmness and stability.

2. Elbaite

Elbaite gets its name from the island of Elba in Italy, where it was first discovered. This mineral, renowned for its striking and vibrant colors, is prominent in the world of gemstones. Notably, it offers a wide range of hues, including captivating shades of green, blue, pink, and even multicolored varieties. These exceptional color variations result from various trace elements present within its crystal structure. Furthermore, elbaite’s visual allure is derived from its unique physical properties. For instance, it possesses a high refractive index and exhibits strong pleochroism. As a result, elbaite continues to captivate and inspire both scientists and admirers of natural beauty with its captivating colors and exceptional gemstone quality.

3. Liddicoatite

Liddicoatite derives its name from Richard T. Liddicoat, a renowned gemologist and former president of the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). This highly valued mineral exhibits pleochroism, displaying different hues when viewed from different angles, adding to its visual allure. Meanwhile, liddicoatite crystals typically appear as elongated prismatic shapes with parallel striations. Found in various locations worldwide, such as Madagascar, Brazil, Afghanistan, and the United States, liddicoatite is a sought-after gemstone for its rarity and aesthetic qualities. Furthermore, people often cut and facet it into gemstones. And then use it in various jewelry pieces, like rings, pendants, earrings, and more.

4. Dravite

Dravite, also one of the captivating varieties of tourmaline, showcases warm and earthy colors ranging from golden brown to deep chocolate brown. The brown variety is the most common and is often referred to as “brown tourmaline” or “chocolate tourmaline.” This name originates from its discovery near the Drava River in Austria. Dravite’s rustic charm appeals to nature lovers and collectors, thanks to its rich color palette and high luster, making it ideal for stunning jewelry designs. Additionally, people believe that Dravite possesses grounding and protective energies, fostering a sense of stability and security.

5. Uvite

Uvite, another fascinating gemstone mineral from the tourmaline group, is popular for its diverse range of colors and crystal formations. It commonly occurs in shades of green, brown, and black, but it can also exhibit rare colors such as pink and yellow. Its name, derived from the Latin word “uva” meaning grape, refers to its characteristic grape-like clusters. It typically occurs in metamorphic rocks, often associated with other minerals like quartz and feldspar. Uvite’s vibrant colors, excellent transparency, and unique crystal formations make it highly sought after by collectors and gemstone enthusiasts.

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Pink Sapphire

As a branch of sapphire, the pink sapphire gemstone is well-known for its sweet and soft color. And it gives people a sense of freshness, like a spring breeze. Besides, pink sapphire implies sapphire loyalty and the romantic feeling of pink, making it a trend in the market. Pink sapphire is popular with women in Europe and America as a gem variety with small output. Therefore, pink sapphire is a trendy purchase object as a wedding ring or anniversary jewelry. In Japan, professional women also like to buy petite, simple pink sapphires to increase their affinity.

Exotic Gemstone – Rhodochrosite

Rhodochrosite is an exotic, undeniably gorgeous, and extremely rare rose-colored gemstone. The name rhodochrosite is derived from the Greek words “rhodon” (rose), “chlorosis” (colored), and “lithos” (stone), which means rose-colored gem.” Unlike any other “red” gemstone, rhodochrosite is a beautiful yet extremely rare gemstone with a beautiful color. It is transparent and uniform in color when faceted, with good brilliance and luster, attractive shape, and overall appearance. Additionally, rhodochrosite represents the stone of compassion, symbolizing selfless love and making people go beyond simple empathy.

Healing Pink Gemstone – Tourmaline

Pink tourmaline is a rare gemstone representing love, compassion, emotional healing, and self-love. Tourmaline is a gemstone with brilliant color, while pink tourmalines are a beautiful pink color with an ideal medium tone that is neither too dark nor too bright. It is a unique and dazzling gemstone that offers a variety of fantastic benefits. Bright and brilliant in color, pink tourmalines shimmer with captivating sparkle. Pink tourmaline is famous for its bountiful healing properties. Its delicate beauty, warmth, and cheerfulness can keep people in a pleasant and comfortable mood, which makes it an excellent stone to have around during times of change or stress.

Stunning Pink Galaxy – Morganite

As a member of the hexagonal crystal family, morganite has a translucent look and a vitreous luster. Discovered in Madagascar in 1911, it was known as “pink beryl”. George Frederick Kunz, a noted Tiffany gemologist, renamed it after a New York banker philanthropist John Pierpont Morgan. People often associate it with innocence, sweetness, romance, and love. In addition, those who wear it believe that morganite can bring healing, compassion, and promise. Its soft pinkish hue brings feminine elegance to any outfit, and it is a stunning gemstone to use in your gemstone jewelry collection. Even Princess Kate has a soft spot for morganite jewelry. She has worn morganite jewels on various occasions many times, and the refreshing and elegant pink reflects her noble and elegant temperament.

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1. Bloom Of Love

If you’re ready to have a fabulous wedding in autumn, then the striking Watermelon tourmaline jewelry will be the best to start. Bursting with the appealing beauty from this tourmaline floral bridal set, it’s the ideal complement for a bride-to-be. Also, a glittering center stone in Asscher-cut embraced by a river-like scintillating halo sits on the sleek enhancer. Additionally, an interchangeable band consists of five scintillating round-cut stones linked by other accents studded marquise motifs, creating flowing scalloped patterns gracefully. The best gift from SHE·SAID·YES to make her dream come true.

2. The Forever Moment

Classic and timeless. This second glamorous watermelon-colored engagement ring blends elegance with a contemporary sense are special for every beautiful bride-to-be. At its center also is a shimmering oval-cut tourmaline surrounded by a row of dazzling small round gemstones, revealing unparalleled brilliance and a premium aesthetic simultaneously. Finally, feature an exceptionally polished finish; a semi-paved shank is twisted elegantly to accentuate the stunning appearance. Such a perfect gift to cherish absolutely.

3. Sweetheart

The third piece is this dainty watermelon tourmaline ring. Unlike the classic tourmaline engagement ring, this piece is far more stylish for daily wear. Firstly, the stackable design shimmers with a sparkling heart-shaped stone in the center and is softly held by a trendy chevron band paved with glimmering gems. Completing a stunning look, it’s your ideal choice for wearing alone or as part of a ring stack. Also, SHE·SAID·YES will provide you with 10K, 14K, and 18K Gold, Rose Gold, and White Gold to meet all your needs. A breathtaking style is sure to be the most eye-catching in your jewelry box.

4. Power Of Yourself

A simple design perfectly showcases the brightly-colored tourmaline’s stunning radiance. The stylish and beautiful pendant necklace is suitable for each of your captivating looks. For instance, t features a brilliant triangle-cut gem protected by a well-crafted sleek bezel in the same shape. Besides, connected by a highly buffed cable chain,  this magnificent piece exudes an innate brilliance to catch your sight. This precious accessory will always be your go-to for stacking fashion.

5. The Rebirth

The last piece of tourmaline jewelry is this brilliant stud earring. Endowed with a minimalist design, this glittering stud earring truly reflects the perfect radiance of the watermelon tourmaline. Furthermore, each of the accessories features a scintillating Asscher-cut tourmaline set in four delicate prongs for elevated maximum luminescence. In a word, these dainty daily pieces create implicit excellence that fits every look you want.

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6th Anniversary: Amethyst

The sixth wedding anniversary gemstone is the magical Amethyst. It belongs to the beautiful crystal family and shows in diverse purple shades due to the effect of different mineral elements hidden inside. For decades, Amethyst has been one of the most well-received gemstones in the jewelry market. And the rising popularity of purple hues nowadays, from reddish-purple to violet purple and bluish purple, made Amethyst one of the most stylish gems among young people. Moreover, people can mine it from many countries, and the vast production of Amethyst brings a lower price for customers. So, you can purchase high-quality Amethyst jewelry to please your lover easily.

7th Anniversary: Onyx

As a gemstone for jewelry, onyx may not be as well known as other gemstones. This 7th-anniversary gemstone is an opaque silicate mineral with a parallel banded variety of chalcedony. And it comes in a variety of colors and band patterns. Fantastic patterns include straight, nearly parallel strips or colored layers, allowing skilled gem carvers to cut the material to create reliefs and intaglios with extraordinary depth and contrast. Besides, its unique appearance and texture receive much attention from men. It’s an absolutely great gift to celebrate the 7th wedding anniversary.

8th Anniversary: Tourmaline

The 8th-anniversary gemstone tourmaline refers to a family of related minerals with widely varying properties. It also has a variety of colors for your option, and you can probably find any hues you like. Pure blue, orange, and red tourmalines are rare, but color-changing tourmalines are even exceptionally rare. Tourmaline’s famous color is a gradual shade from green to red or pink, also known as watermelon tourmaline. This distinctive color made it a one-of-a-kind gemstone for jewelry making.

9th Anniversary: Lapis Lazuli

Lapis lazuli is the 9th-anniversary gemstone. It’s a deep-blue metamorphic rock and semi-precious stone in the jewelry market. Because of its beautiful and intense blue color, it has long been highly valued by the Indus Valley civilization. The ancient Indians used Lapis lazuli to make fine jewelry and decorative objects. It is not the most popular colored gemstone, but its cobalt blue hue makes it stand out in rings, bracelets, and brooches.

10th Anniversary: Diamond Jewelry

Ten years of marriage is a milestone, so diamond jewelry is a good idea! For a woman, an extra piece of diamond jewelry will only make her happier. Timeless diamonds reflect enduring love and commitment and are a top choice for a happy marriage. If she already has a gorgeous diamond engagement ring, a pair of diamond earrings or a diamond necklace would be perfect for making up a diamond jewelry set.

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1. Peridot

If some gemstones can be the symbol of fairy color, Peridot must be on the list. Peridot was once believed to trap the sun’s rays, so the ancient people called it  “The Jewel of The Sun.” Peridot could best describe the vivid spring that grew with various plants for its unique color from brown-green to grass-green. Unlike the regular green color, peridots add a hint of a yellow hue, making them more brisk and energetic. The vibrant peridot symbolizes good luck, wealth, and peace. It can help you calm down and keep you away from jealousy. Wearing this peridot-colored bracelet on a warm spring is an absolutely fantastic experience.

2. Emerald

As one of the green color gemstones for spring, emerald is quite different from the peridot. Although it ranges from light green to dark green, emeralds always showcase a deeper green hue than peridot. Also, for that, emerald is the preference of nobility. However, today it belongs to more and more ordinary people. The deep green will lend you a touch of elegance and decency on essential occasions in spring. And wearing emerald jewelry in daily life will also take your personal temperament to a more mature and stable level. As the “Stone of Successful Love,” emeralds also encourage patience, loyalty, inspiration, peace, and unity. Check this classic emerald pendant necklace from SHE·SAID·YES will let you shine in this fresh spring.

3. Pink Sapphire

Not just green, spring comes alive with flowers of various colors, especially pink. Pink sapphires are fascinating gemstones and include a wide range of shades of pink, from light to dark. In recent years, they were becoming increasingly popular as modern and flattering colored gemstones in the jewelry market among many celebrities. Also, the pink sapphires are the most complementary color to all skin tones, which means it could suit all the people whatever their skin color is. Leaving the chill winter behind, the soft pink sapphire with its distinctive femininity and delicacy would lend you an alluring charm and carry you a good fortune and intense love.

4. Tourmaline

Generally, the tourmaline owns various colors and often appears from colorless to black and displays many shades to be genuinely remarkable. But the most classical one is definitely the combination of pink and green known as the bicolor “watermelon tourmaline.” This charming blending color could vividly imitate a watermelon-liked hue with sweetness and freshness, the ideal gemstone for shiny spring. Moreover, it will reveal your inner power to keep you motivated and driven to achieve your goals in this genial season.

What are you waiting for? The spring is drawing to an end. Visit SHE·SAID·YES now to create your favorite and stylish spring jewelry!

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Q1: What color is the tourmaline?

A: Various species appear in different colors from colorless to black. Here are a few common and important varieties:

• Rubellite–pink, purplish-red, orange-red, similar in color to a ruby
• Indicolite–violetish blue, blue or greenish blue
• Chrome–intense green, vanadium makes it so beautifully green
• Canary–bright yellow tourmaline from Malawi
• Watermelon–a green skin and red core, often cut as slices
• Cat’s Eye–chatoyant tourmaline in a variety of colors
• Paraiba–striking neon color, the most prized of all tourmaline colors

In short, when judging its color quality, tourmaline with high saturation and no dark zones is the most valuable.

Q2: How is the clarity of this gem?

A: The colored tourmaline grows in a liquid-rich environment. Hence, the most common inclusions in tourmaline are fractures, liquid-filled healing fractures, and needle inclusions. These inclusions are more visible in tourmalines with light tones and low chroma, while those with bright colors and inclusions will be cut into cabochons to highlight their colors and dilute the inclusions.

Q3: What about the cut of it?

A: Due to its strong pleochroism, it is cut based on the depth of the color, rather than cutting them lengthwise. To deepen the tourmaline of lighter color, the cutters would orient it with the table facet perpendicular to the crystal length. And to make the dark tourmaline look brighter, the cutter would orient it with the table facet parallel to the crystal length.

Q4: Has this gemstone been treated to enhance its color?

A: Many treatments are used to improve its appearance and color, making it more attractive. For example, heating is common and stable in lightening blue and green stones, while irradiation is helpful in producing red, deep pink, yellow and orange stones. Another infrequent method is acid treatment, primarily used on cats’ eyes and bleached dark inclusions.

Q5: Does it cost much?

A: The value of tourmaline varies tremendously, depending on its species and quality. Most valuable are Paraiba tourmalines, and they are tens of thousands of dollars per carat. Second, are chrome, rubellites, indicates, and bi-colors, reaching as much as $1000/ct or more. By contrast, other species are lower for prices between $50-750/ct, mainly depending on their color saturation.

Q6: How to differ it from other imitations?

A: A common imitation of tourmalines is glass. Judging from the inclusions, there are often small round bubbles in the glass, which is not the case with tourmaline inclusions. We can also distinguish the glass and tourmaline by light observation. Another imitation is fluorite. From the perspective of hardness, the tourmaline is 7.5 on the Mohs Scale, while the fluorite is only about 4. We can distinguish them by scratching the glass.

Q7: How do I care for this kind jewelry?

A: Owe to its electric conductivity, it will attract more dust. So you may need to clean your jewelry frequently. Avoid cleaning them with ultrasonic or steam devices since they have numerous inclusions. Instead, use a soft brush and mild detergent to clean.

Q8: Where to buy tourmaline jewelry?

A: SHE·SAID·YES!!! Browse through our collection and search for tourmaline rings, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. You will also find special sections for engagement rings, and wedding rings.

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What is Tourmaline?

• Tourmaline is a crystalline boron silicate mineral, and it contains splendid elements such as iron, sodium, magnesium, aluminum, etc. It often appears from colorless to black and displays many shades to be truly remarkable.   
• The word tourmaline comes from the Sinhalese word “turmali,” which means stones with mixed color. And its color varies in contained chemical compositions.
• It was first discovered at a mine in Newry, Maine in 1822. Its main locations are in Brazil and many parts of Africa, including Tanzania, Nigeria, Kenya, Madagascar, Pakistan, Sri Lanka. Brazil is a treasured place for finding tourmaline, and you can see almost every color of tourmaline here, especially in Minas Gerais and Bahia.
• An enchanting watermelon tourmaline has a vivid burst of color,  and perfectly imitates the flesh and outer shell of juicy summer fruit.

The Lore and legend

• During the 1700s, several children in Amsterdam were playing the stones brought back by navigators. They surprised that these stones can attract and repel light objects such as dust or grass clippings. In additional, the fancy colors appear when put them under the sunlight. So they called it “aschentrekker”, which means ash puller. In fact, it is because the electric charge happens when the tourmaline rocks are vigorously rubber or heated.
• A legend goes that those who can find the foothold of the rainbow will be able to find eternal happiness and wealth. It wasn’t until 1520 that a Portuguese expedition discovered a gem sparkling with neon lights in Brazil, just like the rainbow shoot from the sky to the earth. The ordinary stones bathed in the rainbow, acquiring various colors in the world, and they had been refined and crystal clear. Not all stones are so lucky. The gem is called “Tourmaline,” also known as “The rainbow falling into the world.”

Symbolism and significance of Tourmaline

• The gem symbolizes confidence, gentleness, braveness, love and honesty.
• It can improve your nervous system, blood circulation, and also be used to cure some skin disorders.
• It will reveal your inner power to keep you motivated and driven to achieve your goals.

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Overview

Tourmaline comes in different species and varieties. The watermelon tourmaline is part of the Elbaite species. Elbaite species are those with reds, greens, blues, and colorless features. Watermelon tourmaline has a concentrically color zone. It features a pinkish-red interior and green exterior completing its watermelon appearance. The watermelon effect appears because the concentration or composition in trace elements change during growth.

Origin

Watermelon tourmaline was first discovered at a mine in Newry, Maine in 1902. Now the main origins of watermelon tourmaline include Afghanistan, Brazil, Madagascar, Nigeria. Brazil is also famous for its gem-quality watermelon tourmalines with stunning clear and vibrant colors. It is specifically around the Minas Gerais region.

History

A legend goes that those who can find the foothold of the rainbow will be able to find eternal happiness and wealth. It wasn’t until 1520 that a Portuguese expedition discovered a gem sparkling with neon lights in Brazil, just like the rainbow shoot from the sky to the earth. The ordinary stones bathed in the rainbow, acquiring various colors in the world, and they had been refined and crystal clear. Not all stones are so lucky. The gem is “Tourmaline,” also known as “The rainbow falling into the world.”

Originated in America, but the biggest market of tourmaline at the time was China. Its well-known admirer was Tzu Hsi, the Dowager Empress who ruled China with an iron hand from 1860 until her death in 1908. She was so addicted to this stone that she bought vast quantities of it. They often existed in carvings worn by the Imperial Court and wealthy personalities. Furthermore, the Chinese have engraved figures and patterns with tourmaline for centuries. The picture shows an exquisite snuff bottle made from pink tourmaline, which is still displayed in the museum.

Care Instructions

With 7 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, watermelon tourmaline is a fairly tough stone, making it resistant to scratching and breaking. But sudden temperature changes may damage a watermelon tourmaline, so avoid fading of stone color from prolonged exposure to water or sunshine. Use mild soapy water and a soft brush to clean your watermelon tourmaline jewelry instead of the ultrasonic and steam cleaner. Once the stone is clean, be sure to dry it off thoroughly.

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