Mineral (Synthetic / Man-made)
Opalite
Synthetic Opalised Glass
Hardness: 5-5.5 (Mohs scale); Color: Iridescent milky white with blue/orange/yellow opalescence; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline); Cleavage: Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.3-2.5.
- Hardness
- 5-5
- Color
- Iridescent milky white with blue/orange/yellow opalescence
- Luster
- Vitreous to pearly
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5-5.5 (Mohs scale); Color: Iridescent milky white with blue/orange/yellow opalescence; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline); Cleavage: Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: 2.3-2.5.
Formation & geological history
Opalite is a synthetic, man-made glass produced in factories. It is created by melting silica together with various metal oxides (such as dolomite) and then rapidly cooling the mixture to achieve a milky, translucent finish that mimics the play-of-color in natural opal. Unlike actual minerals, it has no geological age.
Uses & applications
Primary use is in mass-produced jewelry, beads, cabochons, and decorative items. It is popular in the metaphysical community and used frequently in affordable accessory lines due to its durability compared to natural opal.
Geological facts
Many people confuse Opalite with natural Moonstone or Opal. While 'Opalite' was once used to describe a specific type of impure common opal, today the term almost exclusively refers to this specific trade name for opalized glass. It glows a distinctive orange or 'sunset' color when held up to a direct light source.
Field identification & locations
Identification in the field is usually based on the presence of small air bubbles (typical of glass), a lack of organic banding seen in moonstone, and its consistent, glowing iridescence. It is common in retail craft stores and online marketplaces. Collectors should note it is not a naturally occurring stone.
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