mineral
Opalite (likely man-made opalescent glass)
Opalite; not a true mineral, typically synthetic opalescent glass (silica-based)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectTranslucent milky body with blue, pink, and yellow flashes; vitreous luster and conchoidal fracture. Mohs hardness is about 5–6; no cleavage; composition and density vary because it is glass.
Identified More mineral →
Explore Opalite (likely man-made opalescent glass) in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Translucent milky body with blue, pink, and yellow flashes; vitreous luster and conchoidal fracture. Mohs hardness is about 5–6; no cleavage; composition and density vary because it is glass.
Formation & geological history
Usually manufactured by melting silica-rich glass with additives, then shaped and polished; it has no geological age or natural formation environment. Natural opal is hydrated amorphous silica, SiO₂·nH₂O, but this appearance is more consistent with synthetic material.
Uses & applications
Used for inexpensive jewelry, beads, carvings, spheres, and decorative objects; generally low commercial value compared with natural opal.
Geological facts
The term “opalite” is commonly used in the marketplace for synthetic glass, while natural opal displays genuine play-of-color caused by ordered silica spheres and often shows a more irregular internal structure.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its perfectly smooth spherical form, glassy translucence, uniform coloring, and absence of obvious natural matrix; inspect for bubbles and test hardness cautiously. Likely produced commercially worldwide.
