The Underwoods Journal
Opal and Tourmaline Offer Dazzlingly Unique Birthstones for October
Opal Opals are the most individual gemstones. Every opal is as unique as a fingerprint, with a one-of-a-kind combination of colors. Long ago, opal was called the “Queen of Gems” because the colors of all other gems can be found inside it. An ideal opal includes every color of the rainbow, but some hues may be more prevalent than others in individual gemstones. From those swept up by oceanic blues and greens to those blazing with reds and yellows, there is a unique opal to fit every person’s preference. The word “opal” comes from the Greek word opallos, meaning "to see a change (of color),” and the source of this name becomes clear as you rotate an opal and watch the colors shift in the changing light. Tourmaline Tourmaline, from the ancient Singhalese phrase tura mali, means “stone with mixed colors” - an apt name for a gem that can be several colors at once. An old Egyptian legend explains this mixture of colors by saying tourmaline, journeying up from the center of the Earth, passed over a rainbow and assumed all the colors of the spectrum. Still called the “Gemstone of the Rainbow” today, tourmaline comes in a dazzling spectrum of hues, from bright red and magenta to delicate pink and orange, from vibrant yellow and forest green to ocean blue and violet. Bi-color and tri-color tourmaline gems come in many different combinations. You can even find a multi-color variety called Watermelon Tourmaline, which has green, pink, and white bands. Jewelers cut this gemstone to resemble a watermelon, with each slice sporting a pink center, white ring, and green outer edge. Both opal and tourmaline gemstones come in a dazzling array of unique colors and combinations, ensuring that you will find the perfect gem to represent you or your loved one. To find a birthstone gem as unique as the person wearing it, visit our shop on Dickson Street in Fayetteville or call 479-521-2000 for more information. Drawn to color and character? Explore gemstone jewelry.
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October Birthstone: Opal
The name opal comes from the Greek Opallos, which means "to see a change of color." Opals range in color from milky white to black with vibrant specs of yellow, orange, green, red, and blue. The opal is composed of particles closely packed in circular arrangements which gives the opal its radiance. Each color shines and sparkles together to create a beautiful combination that is almost kaleidoscopic. In ancient times, opals were said to be the most mysterious stones because they were filled with the virtues of all the precious gemstones encapsulated within it. Opal is also one of the birthstones for the month of October and is a symbol of purity, innocence and hope. Those who are born in October are said to be imaginative, peaceful and even tempered individuals and the opal perfectly captures this quality. It embodies an essence of serenity and a delicate beauty which makes it one of the most unique birthstones. The value of an opal is based on how colorful they are. The are several types of opal each with their own beautiful qualities. • Boulder Opal • Black Opal • White/Milk Opal • Crystal Opal • Precious Opal • Fire Opal Underwoods has a wide selection of beautiful opal jewelry that makes a great gift for friends and family with October birthdays. Of course, opals make a great gift for anyone no matter what month they were born in. Drawn to color and character? Explore gemstone jewelry.
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