Four Elements: Hopeful Opals

Oct 3

What's your birthstone? It's kind of like your birthday but in gorgeous gemstone form. It's something to celebrate. The ancient Greeks believed everything was made of four elements: earth, water, air, and fire. We believe every birthstone month deserves (at least) four jewelry wishes. Happy birthstone!

October’s favorite kaleidoscopic gem

Mystical moonstones. Dreamy labradorites. Gem collectors covet iridescent stones, but opals have an outshining quality. The stone that’s known as the “changing color” (deriving from the Greek word “opallus”) is said to bring good luck, purity, and hope. They come in a spectrum grouped into two categories: precious and common. Those looking for a more tranquil play on color should consider black, white, or boulder opals. Choose from fire, blue, and pink opals if you're seeking something with more sizzle. Here are four pieces ripe for spooky season.

**EARTH**

Gemella Jewels is made up of twin sisters, Anna and Rachel. They are third-generation jewelers, starting with their grandfather, a Holocaust survivor who worked his way up from being a messenger for a stone dealer to creating his own jewelry company. Signature pieces like their customizable Sweetheart necklaces are both bold and sweet.
Gemella Jewels 18k yellow gold, Ethiopian opal, and Chrysoprase “Jumbo Sweetheart” necklace, $5,280 at Gemella Jewels

**FIRE**

Zoë Chicco is known for creating everyday jewelry with significant meaning. A delicate beaded bracelet in a birthstone (pink opals, to be exact) is just one example of her many designs. Wear one for a simple look or more for a delightful arm party.
Zoë Chicco 14k gold and faceted pink opal rondelle bead bracelet with diamonds, $725 at Zoë Chicco

**AIR**

Born and raised in Montana and based in New York’s Hudson Valley, designer Rachel Atherly uses traditional metalsmithing to craft pieces that range from statement to subtle—all rooted in nature themes. This ring is the latter with its abstract scarab setting and mellow blue-green opal.
Rachel Atherly 18k gold blue-green opal “Scarab” ring, $915 at Lynne Goldman Elements

**WATER**

Designer Guita Mortinger uses fresh color combinations and a wide variety of stones to make her fun, feminine collections. Heart-shaped fire opals show their strength when paired with blushing moonstones and dripping gold in these stunners.
Guita M 18k yellow gold, deep fire opal hearts, and blush moonstone earrings, $9,000 at Guita M

Editor: Samantha Durbin
Market Editor: Johannah Masters

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