October Birthstone Opal

Opal, October's birthstone, is a complex and colorful gemstone. The beauty of the stone has inspired a variety of beliefs about its powers throughout history. The ancient Romans felt that the opal symbolized hope and purity, and the stone was also believed to protect the wearer from harm. Ancient Greeks believed the opal could give foresight and powers of prophecy. It is said that Cleopatra wore opals to attract Mark Anthony. Queen Victoria was known to collect opals as well. There are many different sorts of opal, and this stone can be found in a variety of colors. The milky appearance in some opals is referred to as “opalescence". The Sterling And Sea Opal Hoops from EmotionalOasis are a gorgeous example of stones with opalescence. When the sun catches them, they look like they are glowing. This creamy white African opal, featured in the lovely Diana necklace by CoolJewelryDesign, is much more opaque: The most precious opals have a striking multicolored look due to diffraction of light through the microstructure of the Opal. Because the most precious stones tend to be quite expensive, synthetic opals are available with the same gorgeous multicolored appearance. Only a few manufacturers make synthetic opal with structural similarity to the natural stone, and Gilson Opal is considered the best. This Fine Silver and Gilson Opal Ring from Jewelry24Seven features a Gilson Opal with gorgeous play of color. Peruvian Opal is also called blue opal–this blue-green stone is striking in this Peruvian Opal Sterling Charm and Leather Necklace by Marcie Jane Designs: These classic earrings by GlitzGlitter showcase blue opals as well: These Green Opal Earrings by PiecesOfIndigo are a beautiful example of the gemstone's varying coloration: This lovely pink Delicate Opal Pendant by OvgilliesDesigns shows opalescence: Like the styles of the Jewelry on Etsy team members, opals can be quite diverse, and always beautiful. Stop by Etsy and check out all the newest jewelry from the Jewelry on Etsy Team by searching JETTEAM in the search box on Etsy’s home page. Posted by Juliaa .