October Birthstone Opal

October Birthstone OpalOpal is the October birthstone. The word opal is derived from the Latin word opalus meaning precious stone. Ancient kings treasured opal for its beauty and firey colors. Opal is said to be a symbol of hope and beauty. Pink tourmaline is the alternate birthstone for October.Opal is the most colorful of all gemstones due to the myriad of colors that are displayed. No two opals are alike. Precious opal is rare and is prized as a gemstone. It is a common myth that if you wear opal and it is not your birthstone, it will bring you bad luck. Another myth is that opal jewelry must be soaked in water or it will lose its firey shimmery luster.