Is there anything better than the smell of pumpkin spice and scented candles and the sounds of bonfires and crunchy leaves? We think not. It’s one of the reasons we love autumn so much, and if there’s a month to embody all the best parts of autumn, it’s October. For some of you, this month will also be a celebration as you celebrate your birthday! And with an October birthday also comes stunning October birthstone jewellery.
What is October’s Birthstone?
In the same way October is ever-changing in its weather, from crisp sunny days to cosy, raining evenings, it’s birthstone opal captures the same sense of magic, cosiness and transformation. Opals are best known for their mesmerising iridescence, changing colour from silver to blue, green to pink and even in some lights, a fiery red. It might just be one of the most beautiful and transformative birthstones out there.
The October birthstone of opal is primarily found in Australia but has also been discovered in Ethiopia and Mexico. Every stone is completely unique, with its own distinctive colour patterns. If you ask us, it’s the perfect gemstone to represent the ever-evolving spirit of those born in October.
The History & Lore of Opal
The October birthstone of Opal has a history that dates back thousands of years. They are believed to have been first discovered in Hungary, around 4,000BC, though today, Australia is the leading source producing around 95% of the world’s opals. The name opal comes from the Roman word “opalus,” meaning “precious stone,” and the Sanskrit word “upala,” meaning “jewel.” The Romans had it right, if you ask us.
Over the years, Opal has become a symbol of hope and purity. In ancient Rome, they often used it in jewellery and decorative items, believing it to bring good fortune to those who wore it. During the Middle Ages, opals were also considered lucky and were thought to contain magical powers because of its ever-changing colours. The October birthstone has also been favoured by many royal and famous figures. Queen Victoria in particular was known to be a huge fan, gifting opal jewellery to her daughters.
Opal’s Symbolism: The Meanings Behind October’s Birthstone
I think if we were the ones to first discover Opal, we’d believe it had magic powers too. Its ever-changing flashes of colour instantly inspired creativity, inspiration and originality, and it’s for this reason so many choose to wear October birthstone jewellery, whether they’re born in October or not. It’s like wearing a little rainbow of possibilities, reminding you to embrace your individuality and showcase your sparkle.
As mentioned, opal is also seen as a symbol of hope, luck and love. Romans saw them as a symbol of purity and protection, choosing to wear them into battle to protect themselves from harm. Opals are also thought to bring emotional balance and help strengthen relationships, making them the perfect stone for those who value deep connections.
Styling Your October Birthstone Jewellery
Styling October birthstone jewellery is easy, since the opal gemstone is so beautiful. Its iridescent hues make it perfect for both everyday wear and special occasions. We can just imagine its iridescence adding a playful touch of colour and sparkle to a casual outfit like a cosy jumper and jeans in autumn. But it would equally remain the star of the show with a chic evening dress during formal events.
An October birthstone necklace or pair of opal earrings would be the perfect companion for when you need a creativity and confidence boost, such as during job interviews or career milestones. It’s also a popular choice of wedding jewellery since it’s known for symbolising good fortune and protection for the future.
Caring For Your October Birthstone Jewellery
Taking care of your October birthstone jewellery is important if you want it to keep sparkling for years to come. We recommend giving your gems a little TLC by cleaning them regularly using a mild soap solution, warm water and a soft-bristled brush. Gently brush the setting and stone to banish any grime and dirt to get it sparkling like new again. Also avoid using harsh chemicals like perfume or hairspray around your October birthstone to prevent tarnishing and damage to the setting.
Celebrate Your Individuality with Personalised October Birthstone Jewellery
If you’re ready to embrace your individuality and celebrate your birthday, explore the Birthstone Jewellery collection here at Inscripture. Filled with beautiful, colourful pieces personalised just for your birth month, these designs let you enjoy wearing a piece of your personality every day. For October babies, you’ll get to bask in the splendour of opal with our October birthstone jewellery showcased in a stunning array of 925 sterling silver and 18ct yellow gold vermeil designs.
For further personalisation, consider choosing one of our engraved October birthstone jewellery pieces which can be decorated with your details, such as your name, a date, message, photograph or even a piece of real handwriting. Explore the collection in full today and create a piece of October birthstone jewellery that’s uniquely yours.
