Birthstones · October
The October Birthstone: Opal
The October birthstone is opal — the gem of shifting fire and colour, beloved by Victorian and Art Nouveau jewellers. Here is what it means, what makes one opal finer than another, and where to find antique opal jewellery.
- Opal is the birthstone for October (with tourmaline) and the gem of the 14th wedding anniversary.
- Its beauty is its 'play-of-colour' — flashes of spectral colour that shift as the stone moves.
- Value is led by body type and play-of-colour, then pattern and size; black opal is the most valuable.
- Explore antique opal and gemstone jewellery and antique rings at Mozeris.
What is the October birthstone?
The October birthstone is the opal (October also shares tourmaline). Unlike faceted gems, the opal's beauty lies in its play-of-colour — flashes of spectral colour that move and change across the stone.
Opal is traditionally given for a 14th wedding anniversary. It is softer than most gems, so well-preserved antique opals, cut as cabochons, were always set with care.
Meaning & history
Opal has symbolised hope, creativity and inspiration for centuries. The Victorians adored it — Queen Victoria's love of opals made them deeply fashionable — and its dreamlike colour made it a signature stone of the Art Nouveau movement.
Antique opal jewellery, often paired with diamonds, captures the romance of these periods beautifully.
What gives Opal its value
An opal is judged quite differently from a faceted gem: there are no facets, so its value rests on body colour and the strength of its play-of-colour.
| Factor | What to look for |
|---|---|
| Body type | Dark-bodied black opal is the most valuable; white and crystal opal follow. |
| Play-of-colour | Bright, broad flashes across the full spectrum are most prized. |
| Pattern | Bold, even patterns command more than patchy or faint ones. |
| Size & shape | Larger, well-proportioned cabochons rise in value. |
| Era & workmanship | An antique opal in a fine Victorian or Art Nouveau mount carries collector appeal. |
The antique premium
With antique opal jewellery the setting and period add greatly to the appeal. A fine Victorian or Art Nouveau mount with diamonds and intact hallmarks can lift value well beyond the stone alone.
Explore Antique Opal Jewellery
A curated collection of antique and vintage opal rings, brooches and pendants.
Antique Opal jewellery at Mozeris
Opal suits romantic, characterful antique jewellery. Across our collection you will find it in:
- Antique rings — cluster and Victorian designs.
- Brooches and earrings set with opals and diamonds.
- Necklaces and pendants — Victorian and Art Nouveau styles.
Browse the full antique gemstone jewellery collection to explore by stone.
Choosing & styling
Opal's shifting colour glows against warm yellow gold and sparkles framed by diamonds in platinum. An opal cluster ring or a Victorian pendant makes a romantic, one-of-a-kind piece.
For a period look, pair opal with the romance of Victorian design or explore antique gemstone jewellery more widely.
Frequently asked questions
The October birthstone is opal, prized for its play-of-colour. October also shares tourmaline as a birthstone.
Opal symbolises hope, creativity and inspiration, and was a great favourite of the Victorians and the Art Nouveau movement.
Body type and play-of-colour matter most — black opal with bright, broad colour is finest — followed by pattern, size and the quality of the antique mount.
Yes. We offer antique and vintage opal pieces across our antique gemstone jewellery and antique rings collections. Browse online and make an enquiry to view or purchase.
October's Living Fire
Discover antique and vintage opal jewellery, chosen for colour, character and craftsmanship.