Birthstone: October
Anniversary: 14th

Opals form when silica gel fills crevices in rock, and as the gel hardens, it creates their distinctive play of color through light diffraction—like capturing a rainbow in stone. Ancient Romans prized opals above all other gems, calling them "cupid paederos" meaning "child beautiful as love." Australia produces about 95% of the world's opals, though they're also found in Mexico, Brazil, and Ethiopia, each location producing stones with their own unique character and color play.

Ancient Greeks believed opals granted the power of prophecy and protection from disease, while Arabs thought they fell from heaven in flashes of lightning. Australian Aboriginal dreamtime stories tell of the Creator coming to Earth on a rainbow, with opals forming where his feet touched the ground. This magical gem's ever-changing colors make it perfect for pieces that celebrate individuality and the beauty of being truly one-of-a-kind.