China Tour with GRAND CIRCLE Oct. 18, to Nov. 7. What will I need for weather.

Well, during that time, the rainy season for the above cities all has been over. The temperature then could be different: Beijing would get the average temperature of about 14 C in Oct. and around 10 C in early Nov.
For other two cities, it could be a little warmer - about 20 C. The highest temperature could be about 26-28 C.
Therefore, you can take along both short-sleeved and long-sleeved shirts as well as the light coat or a sweater.
Generally, the US$ cannot be used for the daily things, except some duty-free store at the airport. So Yuan is needed.
Chinese food is certainly safe enough. Don't worry! Sometimes, the street food may be a little unsafe, but it is very delicious. You may be attracted by it!
There are some such gold stores in the three cities, so you can surly get what you want.
Different cities have their attractions, so you can go there and find that what needs to be bought and visited.
Have a nice trip!