October's Birthstone -Pink Tourmaline

Pink tourmaline is the modern birthstone for October. It is a beautiful rosy pink faceted gemstone. Our 14kt gold October birthstone ring has a beautifully faceted pink tourmaline.

Tourmaline is a complex silicate that contains boron. The stone has a larger color range than any other gemstone - it is available in every color! The Mohs hardness for tourmaline is 7 -7.5, so it is a fairly hard stone.

Pink tourmaline is said to be a stone of the heart; it is soothing and gives feelings of comfort.

White opal is the traditional birthstone for October. Opals are a hydrated amorphous form of silica.

White opals have a pale white body tone and display many beautiful flashing colors.

Most white opals are from Australia and come from the Coober Pedy mines. The Mohs hardness for opals is 5.5 -6; so they are moderately soft stones. Take special care of your jewelry containing opals.

For jewelry, most opals are cut and polished as smooth, domed cabochons; they are not faceted.

The Gingham Grasshopper offers a large selection of birthstone rings, earrings, and necklaces for children, teens, and adults.

Our baby earrings come in the popular screw back style and are available in sterling silver or 14kt white and yellow gold.

We also offer baby and children's bracelets with genuine birthstones.

Our selection includes gorgeous engraved bracelets in cultured pearls, plus baby name bracelets with birthstones.

Discover the perfect birthstone jewelry for your birthday girl in our wide selection of bracelets, rings, earrings, and necklaces.

Birthstone rings for children
Birthstone rings for teens and adults
Birthstone earrings for children
Birthstone earrings for teens and adults
Birthstone necklaces for children
Birthstone necklaces for teens and adults
Children's bracelets
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Caring for Pearl Jewelry

Pearls are soft gemstones and need special care to maintain their quality and luster. Never store your pearls alongside other hard jewelry such as gemstones or metals. Pearls should be stored in a soft pouch or soft-lined jewelry box.

Pearls need moisture and they can be damaged by dry air. Pearl jewelry should be kept away from heat and sun as they will dry out, turn brown, and may crack.

Pearls do best if worn often. However, contrary to popular belief, the oils from skin are not good for pearls and they will need occasional cleaning. To clean your pearls soak a clean towel in warm water with a mild soap such as Ivory or an all-natural soap. Gently rub your pearls in the towel, then rinse off the soap with another moist (non-soapy) towel.

Never use dish detergent, laundry detergent, baking soda, or any cleaner on pearls. Do not use a toothbrush or other abrasive material as the pearls will be damaged.

After cleaning your pearls, lay them flat in a slightly moist kitchen towel to dry. When the towel is dry, the pearls should be dry too.

After wearing your pearls, wipe them off with a soft cloth (either dry or damp). This will prevent the accumulation of body oils and dirt. Occasionally use a drop of olive oil on the cloth to help maintain the luster of your pearls.

With good care, quality pearls can last for generations. Our high quality pearl baby bracelets can be worn by little ones now and passed on to future little ones!

Aquamarine - March Birthstone

The birthstone for March is aquamarine, which comes in light blue to a dark blue color. The name is derived from its seawater color. The deep blue stones are more valued, and it can sometimes be confused with blue topaz. The bluish-green colored stones are most recognized as aquamarine.

Aquamarine gets it color from iron and is found in coarse-grained granite. The Moh's hardness is a 7.5 - 8; so it's not a delicate stone. Aquamarine is a member of the beryl family along with morganite (pink) and emerald (green).

The best source for aquamarines is Brazil, but it can also be found in Australia, India, Kenya, and other countries. The largest specimen of morganite was found in coastal Maine.

It is believed to bring the wearer a peaceful sense of calm. I think I need to wear aquamarine more often!