Happy October! As the weather starts to get cooler here in New England, I am reminded of all the reasons I love fall. The cool air, beautiful foliage and pumpkin spiced everything? I am here for it. Honestly, an apple cider donut would really hit the spot right now. Although this fall feels a little (a lot) different, there are still joys to be found. October marks the birth of my son, making him a sweet little libra, and also making his birthstone the Opal.
Charlie (pictured in his sister's favorite floral wreath headband)
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Birthstones are gemstones that represent the month a person was born. In fact, the origin of birthstones can be traced all the way back to biblical times. Twelve stones were selected to represent the twelve tribes of Israel on the breastplate of Aaron, and in the 1st century AD, people began to associate these stones with the signs of the zodiac. Before the early 20th century, there was no official list of these stone designations and they often varied from place to place. Finally, in 1912, the Jewelers of America (JA) cemented the stone and month pairings we all know and use today. In fact, some months have two birthstones associated with them. October has the opal, as well as pink tourmaline. Click here for a complete list of birthstones by month.
What makes the opal unique? Opals are known for their unique display of flashing rainbow colors, also called “play-of color”. They come in many base colors from white, black or even red, but most people associate the opal with a minty, milky color. Many cultures have credited opals with supernatural powers. The ancient Greeks believed opals gave their owners the gift of prophecy and protected them from sickness while other European cultures consider the opal to be a symbol of hope, purity, and truth.
Birthstones are a fun, sentimental way to mark an occasion or relationship, whether it be your own birth or the birth of someone you love. I wear my husband's birthstone (Moon Birthstone Charm in Aquamarine) on my Luna & Stella locket/charm necklace. It is a nice reminder of him every time it catches my eye!
We’ve got some wonderful antique opal pieces in stock right now so please have a look. It’s times like these where celebrating the important relationships in your life can help bring peace and serenity. Happy Birthday to all the October Libras and Scorpios out there! Have a donut!
