gemstone
Opalite
Synthetic glass / Opalized glass
Hardness: 5.5-6 (man-made glass/resin variant), Color: Milky white with blue and orange opalescence, Luster: Vitreous to pearly, Crystal structure: Amorphous
- Hardness
- 5
- Luster
- Vitreous to pearly, Crystal structure: Amorphous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5.5-6 (man-made glass/resin variant), Color: Milky white with blue and orange opalescence, Luster: Vitreous to pearly, Crystal structure: Amorphous
Formation & geological history
Man-made synthetic glass created in laboratories to imitate natural opal or moonstone.
Uses & applications
Used primarily for ornamental carvings, sculptures, decorative items, and jewelry.
Geological facts
Despite often being sold under trade names suggesting a natural mineral, opalite is actually a processed glass material engineered for its unique optical play of colors.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its distinct bluish glow under normal light and warm orange/peach appearance when backlit, as well as its lack of natural crystal faces.
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