October Birthstone: The Opal

Opals are one of the most unique and mesmerising gemstones in the world of jewellery. The iridescent play of colours that opals exhibit is truly breathtaking, making them a favourite among gemstone enthusiasts. Opals are also the birthstone for October, making them a popular choice for birthday gifts.

HOW THEY FORM

Opals are formed from silica gel that seeps into crevices and cracks in rocks, eventually hardening into a solid form. The play of colours in opals is caused by the way the silica spheres are arranged within the stone, diffracting light and creating a rainbow effect. Opals come in a variety of colours, including white, black, blue, and pink.

OPAL JEWELRY

When it comes to opal jewellery, there are many options to choose from. Opals can be set in a variety of metals, including gold and platinum. Opal rings are a popular choice, as they allow the wearer to appreciate the stone's beauty throughout the day. Opal pendants and earrings are also popular options, as they are easily paired with various outfits.

HOW TO CARE FOR OPALS

One important thing to keep in mind when wearing opal jewellery is that opals are a relatively soft stone, with a hardness of 5.5-6.5 on the Mohs scale. This means that they can be easily scratched or chipped, so it's important to handle them with care. Opals should also be kept away from heat and chemicals, as they can cause damage to the stone. To clean, mix a few drops of dish soap in a cup of warm water; dip a soft-bristled toothbrush into the mixture and gently scrub your opal to clean it. It’s safe to place it in water, so you can rinse your stone under the faucet after you’re done cleaning it.

TO SUM IT UP

Overall, opals are a stunning and unique choice for jewellery. Whether you prefer a simple opal pendant or a more elaborate opal ring, there's no denying the beauty of this mesmerizing gemstone.