Opal: A Complete Guide to the October Birthstone

October’s birthstone is the opal, a gem loved for the way it shimmers with shifting colours. No two opals ever look the same, which means every piece of opal jewellery feels truly one of a kind. With its rainbow flashes, opal has long been linked to creativity, hope and imagination, making it a thoughtful choice for anyone born in October.

Opals are also the traditional gift for 14th and 24th wedding anniversaries, a perfect way to celebrate love and milestones.

A Brief History of the Opal Birthstone

Opals have been loved for thousands of years. The name comes from the Latin word opalus, which means “precious stone.” The Romans thought opals were a sign of purity and hope, while people in the Middle Ages believed they could bring good luck and even make you invisible because they reflect so many different colours.

Australia is now the world’s leading source of gem-quality opal, with deposits discovered in the 19th century transforming the market. Today, Australian opals remain some of the most sought-after, though opals are also mined in Ethiopia, Mexico, and Brazil. This global appeal has kept opal jewellery popular among collectors and those looking for meaningful October birthstone gifts.

Physical and Gemological Properties of Sapphire

Opal is quite unlike other gemstones, and its beauty comes from its distinctive structure:

• Composition & Colour: Opal is a hydrated form of silica. Tiny spheres of silica within the stone diffract light, creating its signature rainbow effect known as play of colour. Depending on the type, opals can display a full spectrum of flashes – from fiery reds and oranges to calming blues and greens.
• Types of Opal: The one most people think of is precious opal, which shows off that magical rainbow play of colour. There’s also common opal, which doesn’t have the flashes of colour but still comes in lovely shades, and fire opal, which is usually see-through with a bold orange-red glow.
• Hardness: Opal ranks between 5.5–6.5 on the Mohs scale, making it softer than many gemstones. This means opal jewellery needs thoughtful care to avoid scratches or chips.
• Clarity & Transparency: Opals can range from opaque to transparent. The most prized opals display bright, evenly distributed colours visible across the entire surface.
• Symbolism: Opal has always been seen as a stone full of meaning. People often connect it with protection, inspiration and passion. It’s also thought of as a gem for creativity, which makes it a lovely choice for artists, dreamers and of course anyone celebrating a birthday in October.
  

Opals look gorgeous in yellow, white or rose gold, and they shine even brighter when paired with diamonds or other gems. Every movement makes them catch the light in a really eye-catching way. At Aleks Jewellers in Norwich, our opal jewellery collection includes rings, necklaces, and earrings that showcase this October birthstone’s one-of-a-kind beauty.

Caring for Your Opal Jewellery

Opals are softer and more delicate than gems like sapphire or diamond. With proper care, however, opal jewellery can remain radiant for generations:

• Cleaning: Use lukewarm water, a mild soap, and a very soft cloth. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, steam cleaning, or harsh chemicals as these can damage the stone.
• Storage: Always store opal jewellery separately in a fabric-lined box or soft pouch to prevent scratches from harder gemstones.
• Avoid Heat & Chemicals: Opals contain water, so they are sensitive to extreme heat, dryness, and exposure to household chemicals. Remove your opal rings or bracelets before cleaning, swimming, or applying perfume.
• Regular Inspection: Because opals are softer, check settings frequently to ensure the stone is secure. At Aleks Jewellers, our experts in Norwich can help inspect, clean, or repair your opal jewellery to keep it looking its best.

September Birthstone Gift Ideas

Looking for the perfect gift for an October birthday? Opal jewellery is thoughtful, vibrant, and always unique. Some of our favourites include:

• 0.43ct Opal Diamond with Pear Shoulders Ring set in Platinum
• 18″ Opal Necklace 9k White Gold with a Bezel Setting
• 5mm Round Opal Stud Earrings in 9k Yellow Gold

Each opal is different, which makes giving opal jewellery feel personal and meaningful – no two gifts are ever the same.

Find Opal Jewellery at Aleks Jewellers

At Aleks Jewellers, we’re proud to offer a hand-picked selection of opal jewellery in Norwich. From dazzling opal rings to elegant necklaces, our collection captures the charm and mystery of this October birthstone.

Browse a selection of handpicked opal jewellery online or visit our Norwich showroom to view our full range, which include pre-loved vintage pieces and bespoke creations. Whether you’re searching for a memorable opal birthstone gift, a romantic opal anniversary piece, or simply something that reflects your individuality, we’d love to help you find it.

Opal is more than just a gemstone, it’s a symbol of creativity, hope, and individuality. Celebrate October birthdays and milestones with opal jewellery from Aleks Jewellers, and carry the stone’s beauty with you for years to come. And remember, Aleks Jewellers has guides for every birthstone! Be sure to check out our other birthstone blog posts for ideas on gifts and jewellery for all the months. Whether it’s opal for an October birthday or something else, we’re here to help you celebrate the times of your lives.