October’s Gemstones: From Aquamarine to Opal and Tourmaline
According to George Kunz, the first American gemologist and vice president of Tiffany & Co., all seven cultures he studied in his 1893 research unanimously considered aquamarine the stone of October.
On the breastplate of Aaron (which inspired the tradition of associating gemstones with months), the position for October was assigned to agate. In the foundation stones of the New Jerusalem described in the Book of Revelation, October corresponds to beryl (of which aquamarine is a blue variety).
In 1912, the American National Retail Jewelers Association officially recognized tourmaline and opal as the gemstones for October.
Although tourmaline has been used for centuries, it was only in the 18th century that it was identified as a distinct gemstone variety. Therefore, it lacks a long-standing tradition associated with October.
Opal, on the other hand, boasts a history spanning millennia. In ancient Rome, opal was considered more valuable than diamonds due to its rarity. However, as Australia’s vast opal deposits had not yet been discovered, the stone was less prominent in biblical traditions, which heavily influenced the concept of birthstones.
During the Middle Ages, opal was revered as a magical and healing stone, believed to bring good luck, strengthen vision, and cure various ailments. Known as the “chameleon stone” for its ability to change colors, it gained a mystical reputation.
In the 18th and 19th centuries, opal became associated with misfortune, partly due to Walter Scott’s 1829 novel Anne of Geierstein, where opal was depicted as an ominous stone linked to the heroine’s death. This led to a decline in opal sales and the cementing of superstitions surrounding the gem.
In the late 19th century, the discovery of Australia’s rich opal deposits sparked a resurgence in its popularity. Today, Australia produces around 95% of the world’s opals, including the prized black opal, renowned for its vivid colors and striking play of light.
By the 20th century, opals regained their status as a sought-after gemstone, thanks in part to jewelers like Cartier and Tiffany & Co., who used them prominently in their designs.
Therefore, if you value the centuries-old mystical tradition behind birthstones, aquamarine would be the ideal choice for October. However, if this isn’t a priority, you can freely choose any stone that resonates with you.
Olga Bachurina,
Co-Founder of Venus in Libra,
Certified by GIA & Gübelin Academy
