October Birthstones: Pink Tourmaline and Opal Meaning, Colors, and Where to Find Them
When it comes to birthstones, October is a lucky month. Instead of just one beautiful gem, people born in this month get two dazzling stones to celebrate their birthdays: Opal and Pink Tourmaline. If you're wondering what the birthstone is for October or curious about the meaning, colors, and where to find these gems, you're in the right place. Whether you're into gemstone jewelry, crystal healing, or rockhounding adventures, this guide is for you.
In this article, we'll explore the meaning behind each October birthstone, what makes them special, where they're found, and how you can even dig for your own. This guide will give you everything you need to know about the birthstone month of October.
What Are the Birthstones for October?
If you've ever asked, "What are the birthstones for October?" the answer is both opal and pink tourmaline. Traditionally, opal has been the classic birthstone for October. However, in more recent times, pink tourmaline was added as an alternative, offering a durable and vibrant option for those who want something different.
This means that if you were born in October, your birthstone could be a sparkling, iridescent opal or a bright, colorful tourmaline, especially in pink. The addition of pink tourmaline as the modern option also makes October one of the few months with a gemstone in the pink family.
So if you're wondering what stone is for October, the answer is either opal or pink tourmaline—whichever one speaks to your heart.
Opal: The Traditional October Birthstone
Opal Meaning and Symbolism
The word "opal" comes from the Sanskrit word upala, meaning "precious stone," and later from the Greek opallios, which means "to see a change of color." Opals are famous for their magical play-of-color—a rainbow-like shimmer that changes as the light hits the stone from different angles.
Opal has fascinated people for thousands of years. Ancient Romans believed opal was the most precious and powerful gemstone of all. They thought it combined the best of every gem because of its wide range of shimmering colors. In the Middle Ages, people believed opals brought good luck, made you invisible, and protected your eyesight. In Arabic legends, opals fell from the sky in flashes of lightning.
Symbolically, opals are often connected with creativity, inspiration, and emotional expression. The gemstone is said to help you tap into your imagination and express your feelings. Because of its glowing and ever-changing colors, many also associate opal with hope and transformation.
Opal Colors and Types
The colour of October birthstones is anything but boring. Opals are known for their "play-of-color," which means they reflect a rainbow of hues when you turn them in the light. This makes them one of the most unique-looking gems in the world.
Some common colors of opal include:
- White or milky opal (most common)
- Black opal (rare and highly prized)
- Fire opal (transparent with warm oranges and reds)
- Boulder opal (found within ironstone rock)
So, while opal might not be the first stone you think of when you hear "pink birthstone," it definitely adds magic to the October lineup.
Where Is Opal Found?
If you're into rockhounding or want to know where to find opals yourself, you're in luck. Australia is the world's leading source of opal, producing over 90% of the world's supply. But there are also opal deposits in the United States, especially in states like:
- Nevada: Virgin Valley is famous for black opal
- Oregon: Opal Butte and other areas in eastern Oregon
- Idaho: Spencer Opal Mines
Please always bring appropriate attire and do research before venturing out to rock hunt and crystal hunt. Also, be sure to verify that the location you want to hunt at is available for public access. Rockhounding.org does our best to verify, but it is your responsibility to verify as well because sometimes things change. We are not liable for any actions you take from the information you find on this site.
These are great places for rockhounds to dig for their own opals. Some sites even let you pay a fee to dig your own rough stones.
RELATED READ: Opal Hotspots: The Best Places to Find Opals Worldwide
How to Identify and Care for Opal
Opal is relatively soft and delicate, with a Mohs hardness of around 5.5 to 6.5. That means it can scratch or break if you're not careful. When caring for opal jewelry, avoid high heat, strong chemicals, or dry storage. Opals contain water, so if they dry out, they might crack.
To clean opal, just use a soft, damp cloth. Never use ultrasonic cleaners or strong soaps. If you're buying opal, be sure to check whether it's solid opal, doublet, or triplet—layered versions that are often more affordable.
Pink Tourmaline: The Modern October Birthstone
Pink Tourmaline Meaning and Symbolism
Pink tourmaline, often referred to as the "pink October birthstone," was added as an official birthstone for October in the early 20th century. This beautiful gem is known for its vibrant, candy-like colors and strong emotional symbolism.
In many cultures, pink tourmaline represents love, emotional healing, and compassion. Some believe it helps release stress, improve self-confidence, and balance emotions. It's often associated with the heart chakra and is thought to promote kindness, calmness, and joy.
So, if you're someone who resonates with emotional strength and heartfelt energy, the October birthstone pink tourmaline might be the perfect stone for you.
Colors and Varieties of Tourmaline
Tourmaline is one of the most colorful gemstone families in the world. It comes in nearly every color of the rainbow, including green, blue, yellow, red, and purple. But pink tourmaline has gained popularity as the modern birthstone for October thanks to its striking hue and strong symbolism.
The pink birthstone color ranges from pale baby pinks to hot pink and reddish hues. Sometimes, it can even look like a ruby or be part of a multi-colored crystal, such as the famous "watermelon tourmaline," which features both pink and green.
Where Is Tourmaline Found?
You don't have to travel far to find tourmaline—especially if you're in the U.S. Some of the best rockhounding spots for tourmaline birthstone include:
- California: The Pala region in San Diego County has been a historic hotspot for pink tourmaline.
- Maine: Known for producing high-quality pink and green tourmalines.
- Brazil: One of the largest producers of tourmaline in the world.
- Afghanistan and Madagascar: Also known for vibrant and rare tourmaline specimens.
Please always bring appropriate attire and do research before venturing out to rock hunt and crystal hunt. Also, be sure to verify that the location you want to hunt at is available for public access. Rockhounding.org does our best to verify, but it is your responsibility to verify as well because sometimes things change. We are not liable for any actions you take from the information you find on this site.
Many U.S. sites even allow you to pay a fee to dig for tourmaline yourself—perfect for rockhounds and gem enthusiasts.
How to Identify and Care for Tourmaline
Tourmaline has a Mohs hardness of 7 to 7.5, making it more durable than opal and a better choice for daily wear. To identify pink tourmaline, look for its glassy shine and naturally elongated crystal shape. It usually forms in slender, vertically striated prisms.
To care for it, clean your tourmaline jewelry with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners, which can damage the stone. Store it separately from harder stones to avoid scratches.
How to Choose Your October Birthstone
When deciding between opal and pink tourmaline, consider a few things:
- Do you prefer soft, glowing colors or bold pinks?
- Are you looking for durability in jewelry you wear every day?
- Are you drawn more to spiritual inspiration or emotional grounding?
Many people born in October like to match their stone with their personality. If you're more dreamy and artistic, you might gravitate toward opal. If you're warm-hearted and strong, pink tourmaline might speak to you more.
Some traditions also say the first half of October leans more toward opal and the second half toward tourmaline, but there's no strict rule. You can go with whichever one feels right to you.
Which Is Better for Jewelry: Opal or Pink Tourmaline?
This depends on your lifestyle and preferences. Opals are stunning and one-of-a-kind, but they're more fragile. If you're someone who's always active or wants a ring to wear daily, pink tourmaline might be the better choice.
Tourmaline's durability and variety of shades also make it a favorite for jewelry makers. But if you're drawn to iridescence and mystery, you might fall in love with opal.
Either way, both options offer something beautiful and meaningful to anyone born in the birthstone month of October.
October Birthstone Jewelry and Gift Ideas
Looking to buy a gift for someone with an October birthday—or maybe something special for yourself? You have a lot of choices:
- Opal pendants and earrings offer shimmering beauty with a touch of elegance
- Pink tourmaline rings or bracelets give off a warm, youthful glow
- Custom birthstone jewelry with both gems offers the best of both worlds
You can even find birthstone necklaces that combine both opal and tourmaline, making them a great gift idea that honors the full range of October's colorful legacy.
Fun Facts and Birthstone Trivia
- In ancient times, opals were believed to bring good luck and had the power to ward off evil.
- Queen Victoria loved opals and gave them as wedding gifts to her daughters.
- Tourmaline was once confused with ruby due to its deep pink and red shades.
- The name "tourmaline" comes from the Sinhalese word "toramalli," meaning "mixed gems."
- Some people believe wearing your birthstone boosts your energy and brings balance to your life.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I wear both October birthstones?
Yes! There's no rule saying you have to pick just one. Many people enjoy wearing both opal and tourmaline to honor the full range of their birth month.
2. Is pink tourmaline the only color of tourmaline?
No, tourmaline comes in almost every color. But for October, pink tourmaline is the most recognized and celebrated version.
3. Is opal really bad luck?
That's just a myth. In fact, opals were considered good luck for centuries. The "bad luck" belief only started in the 1800s due to a novel that cast opals in a negative light.
4. What's the most valuable kind of opal?
Black opals from Australia are among the most prized due to their dark body color and vibrant flashes.
5. Is it easy to dig for these stones?
Rockhounding takes patience, and success isn't guaranteed. But the experience is fun and educational, and you might just walk away with your own special piece of the earth.
Conclusion: Celebrate October with Two Stunning Birthstones
So, what is the birthstone for October? The answer is a double delight: opal and pink tourmaline. From the mystical fire of opal to the emotional warmth of pink tourmaline, both stones offer something special for those born in this vibrant autumn month.
Whether you're drawn to the magical rainbow flashes of opal or the tender beauty of pink tourmaline October birthstone, there's no wrong choice. Both stones reflect the richness and complexity of those born in October, and they're a rockhound's dream come true.
If you're interested in finding these gems yourself, places like Nevada, Oregon, California, and Maine offer real opportunities to dig your own birthstones. Now that you know the meaning, origins, colors, and places to find these gems, you can fully appreciate the magic of October's birthstones.
So whether you wear them for their looks, their symbolism, or just because they're your October birthstone pink tourmaline or opal—these gems are a truly beautiful way to celebrate life.