Opal Jewelry, October's Birthstone

Opal Jewelry

Opal, October's birthstone, is unlike any other gem. Known for its dazzling range of color, opal displays a unique phenomenon called play-of-color. Dappled iridescent flecks, from fiery to subtle, dance across the surface of precious opals like the brushstrokes of an impressionist painting or sparkling galaxy. Since ancient times, people around the world have been captivated by opal, ascribing it with mythical origin stories and special powers.

Opal is formed when rainwater seeps into underground rocks, carrying with it dissolved silica, the main component of the gemstone. Because of its amorphous nature, opal is considered a mineraloid, unlike other crystalline minerals. The color of each opal is classed as one of five types: black, white, crystal, jelly, and fire. Opacity and play of color vary from stone to stone, with more intense colors typically the most valued. Due to its relatively high water content, opal is softer and more fragile than other gemstones and requires special care. Opal lends itself to smooth, polished cabochon cuts and freeform or rounded shapes. Often, opal jewelry features doublet and triplet stones. An opal doublet includes a thin layer of opal adhered to another mineral base. Opal triplet is simply a doublet with an additional protective cut of clear quartz layered over the opal.

The October birthstone is also the traditional gemstone gift for 14th wedding anniversaries, but opal is too irresistible to be limited by convention. With availability in a wide range of price points, opal jewelry has a place in any gem lover's collection. As a breathtaking gift for someone special (yourself included), consider opal. From classic to contemporary, Borsheims is proud to offer a stunning selection of genuine opal earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and rings at an unparalleled value.