Opal, commonly known as "opalus" (meaning "a stone") in Latin is the birthstone for the month of October. Opal is found in various shimmering colors with elegant flashes of yellow, orange, green and many more. The opal is often considered to be the most beautiful and desirable of all gems because it is highlighted with all the colors of the rainbow.
Opal is formed from particles called amorphous silica which is found between the cracks in rocks. This birthstone is very brittle and sensitive to heat so this gemstone can be molded in any form.
Opals were first discovered in 1872 in the deep caves of Australia. Opals are also found in Mexico, U.S and many other countries. This gemstone captures the imagination and inspires legends - a fantastic gem for jewelry and gifts.
An alternate birthstone for the month of October is Tourmaline. With its rainbow of colors, tourmaline is an endless source of artistic inspiration and so it is called the "rainbow gemstone".
Tourmaline comes in a variety of colors depending on the minerals present when the gemstone was formed. Tourmalines are found in many countries having the major deposits in Brazil, Sri Lanka and many more.
Tourmaline is considered as one of the best gemstones in terms of jewelry, as you can get the best jewelry without breaking your budget.
Emerald
Emerald is the birthstone for those who were born in the month of MAY. The word EMERALD is derived from the word "Smaragdos" which means "Green stone" and this reflects the color of the emerald.
Emeralds are from the beryl family of minerals and were Cleopatra's favorite gemstones. This stone Emerald is a symbol of faith, courage and foresight and it signifies wisdom, growth and patience. This gemstone is said to be highly priced in terms of antiquity.
A special rectangular cut called the "Emerald cut" was developed since Emeralds can be easily destroyed.
Emeralds were first mined by ancient Egyptians in the eastern desert region about 2,000 years before Cleopatra's birth. But emerald mines were claimed by Cleopatra during her reign.Emeralds are found in Columbia, Brazil, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe. Columbia is said as a source of the finest emeralds.
As said before, Emeralds can be easily destroyed; it is advised not to expose these gemstones to salt water. Jewelry should be removed while cleaning or doing chores. Emerald Jewelry should be carefully cleaned with a soft brush and warm water. These are some of the tips which can be helpful for making your jewelry last forever. More information on jewelry care available on our Education Page
Emeralds, the May birthstone, are indeed soothing and beautiful to gaze upon. Historically associated with love, fertility, and rebirth, emeralds are a perfect choice for the springtime month of May.