glass

Opalite

Synthetic opalescent glass

Hardness: 5.5-6 (Mohs); Color: Translucent cloudy white with blue/orange opalescence; Luster: Vitreous; Cleavage: Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: approx 2.5

Hardness: 5
Color: Translucent cloudy white with blue/orange opalescence
Luster: Vitreous

Identified July 20, 2026More glass →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 5.5-6 (Mohs); Color: Translucent cloudy white with blue/orange opalescence; Luster: Vitreous; Cleavage: Conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: approx 2.5

Formation & geological history

Opalite is a man-made variety of glass designed to mimic the optical properties of natural opal or moonstone. It is created by melting silica and other minerals, then cooling it under controlled conditions to create micro-crystals that scatter light.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in decorative jewelry, lapidary projects, meditation kits, and as a pocket stone for collectors of synthetic 'healing' crystals.

Geological facts

While often sold alongside natural minerals, opalite is entirely synthetic. It is famous for its 'Tyndall effect' where it appears blue against dark backgrounds but turns yellow or orange when light shines through it.

Field identification & locations

Identify by looking for a perfectly uniform, cloudy appearance and the presence of tiny gas bubbles under magnification. It lacks the internal 'fire' (play-of-color) seen in real opal and the structural grain of moonstone.