mineral

Opalite (likely man-made opalescent glass)

Opalite; not a true mineral, typically synthetic opalescent glass (silica-based)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

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.

Identified September 20, 2026More mineral →

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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.