mineraloid (man-made)

Opalite

Synthetic Opalite Glass

Hardness: 5.5-6 (Mohs scale); Color: Translucent, milky white to blue with orange/yellow luminescence; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Amorphous; Cleavage: Conchoidal; Specific Gravity: ~2.4-2.5

Hardness: 5
Luster: Vitreous

Identified June 30, 2026More mineraloid (man-made) →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 5.5-6 (Mohs scale); Color: Translucent, milky white to blue with orange/yellow luminescence; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Amorphous; Cleavage: Conchoidal; Specific Gravity: ~2.4-2.5

Formation & geological history

Opalite is a man-made variety of glass. It is created by fusing dolomite and high-quality silica in a furnace to simulate the opalescence of natural opal or moonstone. It does not occur naturally in the geological environment, including the South Korea region reported.

Uses & applications

Primarily used for decorative purposes, jewelry (pendants, beads, rings), and in metaphysical or spiritual practices as a healing stone.

Geological facts

Despite its name, opalite is not a true mineral or rock formed by geological processes; it is trade-name glass. It is often confused with natural moonstone or opal because of its internal 'glow' caused by the Tyndall effect.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its uniform milky appearance and the way it glows orange/amber when light shines through it (backlit) while appearing blue when light hits the surface. It will often contain tiny bubbles under magnification, which are a hallmark of glass.