For centuries, the opal has captivated humanity with its mesmerizing play-of-color—a fleeting dance of spectral light trapped within a silica lattice. As the designated birthstone for October, it carries a weight of tradition and symbolism. Yet, a persistent question echoes in jewelry forums and gemstone discussions: Is it truly bad luck to wear an opal if it is not your birthstone? This article delves into the complex history of opal, separating folklore from fact, and examines the gem through the lens of modern gemology. It explores the origins of the "unlucky" reputation, provides a scientific breakdown of its properties, and offers practical guidance for enthusiasts and collectors. By synthesizing historical accounts, gemological data, and contemporary perspectives, we present a comprehensive portrait of one of the Earth's most enigmatic and beautiful minerals.
History and Lore: The Birth of a Superstition
The reputation of opal as a stone of misfortune is not rooted in ancient tradition but in a relatively recent confluence of literary influence and commercial competition. Unlike gems with millennia of documented lore, the "curse" of opal is largely a product of the 19th century. The most cited catalyst is Sir Walter Scott’s 1829 novel, Anne of Geierstein, which featured a character whose opal talisman lost its color and brought disaster. The novel’s immense popularity in Europe and America is believed to have dramatically shifted public perception, tarnishing opal’s image from a symbol of hope and purity to one of ill omen.
This literary stigma was potentially amplified by the competitive gem trade of the era. As opal gained popularity, particularly from Australian mines, rival gemstone dealers may have propagated negative myths to bolster the sales of other stones. The superstition that opal is unlucky for those not born in October appears to be a modern extension of this folklore. The provided sources indicate that this belief is an "old wives' tale," suggesting that only individuals born in October can harness the stone's luck. One source explicitly notes that the diamond industry might have encouraged such beliefs to protect its market share.
The myth gained further traction from a practical issue with early opal jewelry. In the 1800s, opals were often set in vegetable-based oils to enhance their color. When exposed to temperature or humidity changes, these oils could evaporate or degrade, causing the stone to temporarily lose its play-of-color. This observable phenomenon was easily misconstrued as the stone "losing its luck" or cursing the wearer. Modern gemology has rendered this issue obsolete, as opals are now stabilized and set using advanced techniques and materials like resin or glass, which prevent dehydration.
It is also important to note that the association of opal with October is not universal. The modern list of birthstones, which assigns opal to October, was formalized in the 19th and early 20th centuries. In other cultural and historical traditions, opal has been linked to different months, such as April or June. This variability underscores that birthstone assignments are cultural conventions rather than immutable laws, further weakening the argument that wearing opal outside of October is inherently problematic.
Geological Formation and Sources
Opal is a form of hydrated amorphous silica, meaning it lacks a crystalline structure. It forms in areas where silica-rich water seeps into cracks and voids in rocks, such as volcanic ash or sedimentary layers. As the water evaporates, it leaves behind microscopic spheres of silica stacked in a grid-like pattern. It is the size and arrangement of these spheres that determine the type of opal and the intensity of its play-of-color.
Opal is mined in several locations worldwide, each producing distinct varieties. Australia is the most significant source, accounting for the vast majority of the world's precious opal. The Lightning Ridge region in New South Wales is particularly famous for its black opal, which has a dark body tone that provides a dramatic backdrop for its play-of-color. The Coober Pedy field in South Australia is renowned for its white opal and crystal opal.
Other notable sources include: * Ethiopia: In recent years, Ethiopian opal, particularly from the Wollo region, has gained prominence for its vivid play-of-color and often honey-colored or clear body. It is important to note that some Ethiopian opals are hydrophane, meaning they can absorb water, which requires specific care considerations. * Mexico: Known for fire opal, a variety that displays a warm orange to red body color, sometimes with play-of-color. Mexican opal is also found in a transparent form known as "jelly opal." * United States: Nevada produces opalized fossils and some precious opal, while states like Oregon and Idaho have deposits of common opal.
The geological conditions for opal formation are specific, making it a relatively rare gemstone. Its formation requires a precise balance of water, silica, and temperature over long periods, contributing to its value and allure.
Gemological Properties
Understanding the physical and chemical properties of opal is crucial for appreciating its unique character and for ensuring its proper care. The following table summarizes its key gemological characteristics, based on data from the provided sources and general gemological knowledge.
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | SiO₂·nH₂O (Hydrated Silicon Dioxide) |
| Crystal System | Amorphous (non-crystalline) |
| Hardness (Mohs Scale) | 5.5 to 6.5 (Australian opal) |
| Refractive Index | ~1.37 to 1.45 (varies with water content) |
| Specific Gravity | ~1.98 to 2.25 (varies with porosity) |
| Luster | Vitreous to resinous; play-of-color is opalescent |
| Cleavage | None; conchoidal fracture |
| Transparency | Transparent to opaque |
| Durability | Fair to good; susceptible to thermal shock and impact |
Hardness and Durability: Opal's hardness, rated between 5.5 and 6.5 on the Mohs scale, places it in a moderate range. It is softer than quartz (7) and significantly softer than corundum (sapphire/ruby, 9) or diamond (10). This means opal can be scratched by harder materials and should be stored separately from other jewelry. Contrary to some myths, opal is not exceptionally fragile. With proper care, it can be worn daily for decades, as evidenced by collectors and jewelers who do so without incident. However, it is not suitable for rings subject to heavy impact, like those worn during manual labor.
Play-of-Color: This is opal's defining characteristic. It is caused by the diffraction of light from the regular array of silica spheres within the stone. For play-of-color to occur, the spheres must be of a uniform size and packed in an orderly pattern. The color displayed depends on the sphere size: smaller spheres produce blue and violet (shorter wavelengths), while larger spheres produce red (longer wavelengths). This is a physical phenomenon, not a chemical one, which is why the color can shift with the angle of light.
Composition and Types: Opal is classified based on its background color and transparency. * Precious Opal: Shows play-of-color. Includes white opal (light body), black opal (dark body), crystal opal (transparent body), and fire opal (warm-colored body, sometimes with play-of-color). * Common Opal: Lacks play-of-color and is typically opaque with a single body color (e.g., pink, blue, green).
Chemical Stability: Opal contains water (typically 3-21% of its weight). This makes it susceptible to extreme heat and rapid temperature changes, which can cause cracking (a phenomenon known as "crazing"). It is also sensitive to chemicals, including acids, cosmetics, and hairspray, which can damage its surface luster.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Beyond its geological and historical significance, opal is steeped in symbolic meaning and metaphysical lore. While the provided sources focus on debunking negative superstitions, they also touch upon positive associations. Opal is often called the "stone of inspiration" and is believed to enhance creativity, spontaneity, and emotional expression. Its play-of-color is seen as a mirror of the wearer's inner world, reflecting a spectrum of emotions and ideas.
In contemporary crystal healing and New Age practices, opal is associated with several attributes: * Emotional Healing: It is said to soothe emotional wounds, release past traumas, and foster a sense of hope and optimism. * Spiritual Connection: Some believe opal can enhance intuition and facilitate access to spiritual realms. * Love and Luck: As a stone of October, it is traditionally linked to love, passion, and good fortune, particularly for those born in that month. However, many modern practitioners argue that its energy is available to anyone who resonates with it, regardless of birth month.
It is critical to distinguish between these metaphysical beliefs and established scientific fact. The sources provided emphasize that there is no empirical evidence linking opal to supernatural luck or misfortune. The belief in its powers is a matter of personal faith and cultural tradition, not gemological science. For the gemologist, opal's "power" lies in its unparalleled visual beauty and the fascinating physics of its formation.
Care and Cleaning: Preserving a Delicate Beauty
Given opal's moderate hardness and water content, proper care is essential to maintain its beauty and integrity. The myth that opals cannot be worn in cold weather is unfounded; however, protection from thermal shock is important.
Cleaning: * Use only warm water, a mild soap, and a soft brush or cloth. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaners, as the vibrations and heat can cause internal fractures. * For hydrophane opals (like some from Ethiopia), avoid prolonged soaking, as they can absorb water and become cloudy. Clean them quickly and dry them immediately with a soft, lint-free cloth. * Never use harsh chemicals, including household cleaners, ammonia, or alcohol, as they can etch the surface.
Storage: * Store opal jewelry separately in a soft pouch or lined jewelry box to prevent scratches from harder gems or metals. * Avoid exposing opal to extreme dryness (which can cause crazing) or sudden temperature changes. If you live in a very dry climate, you can occasionally place a damp (not wet) cloth in the storage box to maintain a bit of humidity.
Wearing with Care: * While opal can be worn daily, it is best reserved for earrings, pendants, and occasional-wear rings rather than daily-wear rings that are subject to knocks and impacts. * Remove opal jewelry before engaging in physical activities, gardening, or using harsh chemicals. * Put on opal jewelry after applying cosmetics, perfumes, and hairspray to avoid chemical exposure.
By following these guidelines, an opal can remain a vibrant and cherished piece for a lifetime, debunking the myth that it is a fragile or "unlucky" stone.
Conclusion
The question of whether opal is bad luck for those not born in October is rooted in 19th-century folklore, literary fiction, and commercial rivalry, not in historical fact or gemological science. Modern experts, gemologists, and jewelers overwhelmingly agree that the superstition is baseless and that opal can be worn and enjoyed by anyone. Its reputation as the "Queen of Unluckiness" is an outdated narrative that fades in the light of its true value.
Opal is a gemstone of remarkable geological formation, possessing unique physical properties that make it both beautiful and moderately durable with proper care. Its symbolism is rich and positive, associated with creativity, inspiration, and emotional healing. The most significant "power" of opal is its ability to captivate the human eye with its ethereal play-of-color, a natural phenomenon that continues to inspire awe and wonder.
For the gemstone enthusiast, jewelry buyer, or student of gemology, the opal offers a compelling study in the intersection of science, history, and culture. It stands as a testament to nature's artistry and a reminder that true value and beauty transcend superstition. Whether chosen as a birthstone or simply for its magnificent appearance, opal is a gem to be worn with confidence and appreciated for its authentic, unparalleled splendor.