A name with Indian origins, the meaning of Opal is taken from the Sanskrit language, meaning 'gem'. It is a name with history, as in Ancient Greece the Greeks believed that opals were formed from the tears of joy wept by Zeus after he defeated the Titans and that the opal bestowed prophetic powers. The Romans considered an opal a symbol of hope and good fortune. The opal is a birthstone for those born in October. One famous figure with Opal in her name is Opal Kunz. She was an American socialite and feminist and famously flew her own planes, encouraging other women to become pilots. Another famous personality is Opal Panisara, a Thai actress who appeared in 'Seven Something' and 'The Bedside Detective'. She starred in the role of Rosie in the 2006 film 'Seasons Change'.