Opal — Stone of Inspiration
Opal is a hydrated amorphous form of silica — it contains between 3% and 21% water within its structure. It is not a crystalline mineral but a mineraloid. Its celebrated "play of colour" (called opalescence) is caused by the diffraction of light through a regular array of silica spheres. Australia produces over 95% of the world's fine opals.
Opals are divided into Precious Opals (which show play-of-colour) and Common Opals (which don't). The most prized is Black Opal from Lightning Ridge, New South Wales, where vivid flashes of colour blaze against a dark body. Boulder Opals and Crystal Opals are also highly valued.
Opal Meaning & Properties
Opal is associated with the crown chakra and the full spectrum of the chakra system — it reflects and amplifies moods and emotions, intensifying the inner state of whoever wears it. The Romans called it opalus — "precious stone." Ancient Arabic legend says opals fell from the sky in lightning flashes.
Opal is a stone of inspiration, creativity, and spontaneous insight. It enhances cosmic consciousness and stimulates originality and creativity. It is also known as a stone of "happy dreams and changes" — bringing lightness and optimism to the spirit.
Tourmaline — Stone of Every Colour
Tourmaline is a boron silicate mineral that occurs in more colours than any other gemstone — from the hot "Paraíba" blue-green of Brazil to deep Rubellite red, violet, yellow, and the multicoloured "watermelon" tourmaline with its pink core and green rind.
Pink and red Tourmaline (Rubellite) is the most popular for October — it activates the heart chakra, promotes compassion, healing, and self-love. Black Tourmaline (Schorl) is one of the most powerful protective stones known. The word "tourmaline" comes from Sinhalese turmali — "stone of mixed colour."