October Birthstone and Birth Flower Guide: Opal and Marigold

Understanding Opals: October’s Unique Birthstone

Opal Mini Mae ring

Opal Significance and Symbolism

Tracing its roots to the Sanskrit term “upala”, opal means “precious stone”. As for symbolism, opals hold a lot of significance! This birthstone will help bring out the best in you and it sure to usher in nothing but positivity in all facets of life.

Marigold: The Vibrant Birth Flower of October

Now let’s shift our attention and move along to the birth flower in the spotlight this month, the marigold! Part of the aster family and native to the U.S., marigolds exude a splendid palette primarily consisting of hues like orange, red and yellow. They are celebrated for their intense colors and distinctive aroma.

Opal Juniper Ring

The Symbolism of Marigolds

When it comes to marigolds, they carry a rich tapestry of meanings! While they have been synonymously linked with remembrance and sorrow, they’re now equally known for joy, prosperity, deep emotions, success and love. Where does the name “marigold” derive from? It is believed to be derived from “Mary’s gold”, paying homage to the Virgin Mary.

For many cultures, they resonate differently with marigolds. Many ancient Greeks and Romans used them for dying fabrics, medicinal purposes and cosmetics. In India, marigolds stand as a symbol of camaraderie and friendship. Lastly, some also believe that the orange and yellow colors of the flower represent sunrays, guiding the departed to the afterlife. Lastly, this birth flower has long been associated with Day of the Dead because people use marigolds to decorate ofrendas and gravesites.

What Love & Promise Offers & Customization

Here Love & Promise, we have a few opal rings that you can call your own! If you don’t see something you like, we can always create an opal piece just for you through our custom design process. Feel free to contact us or schedule a consultation - we can’t wait to hear from you!