Opal is the official
birthstone for the month
of October. Revered
as a symbol of hope,
fidelity, and purity,
opal was dubbed the
Queen of Gems by the
ancient Romans because
it encompassed the
colors of all other
gems. Opal is
prized for its unique
play of color, the
ability to diffract
light into flashes of
rainbow color.
Opal
should be treated with
some care. Opal is
softer than many other
gems and should be
stored carefully to
avoid being scratched by
other jewelry. It
should also be protected
from blows, as exposed
corners can chip.
Opal should not be
exposed to heat or acid.
