mineral

Opalite

Man-made opalized glass

Hardness: 5.5-6.0 (Mohs scale); Color: Translucent to milky white with a blue or orange glow; Luster: Vitreous/Glassy; Structure: Amorphous; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.4-2.5

Hardness: 5
Color: Translucent to milky white with a blue or orange glow
Luster: Vitreous/Glassy

Identified June 28, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Opalite is a synthetic, man-made glass. It is created by melting silica in a furnace and adding minerals or metals to achieve the opalescent effect. While natural 'opalite' exists as a form of common opal, the stone in the image is the commercial variety created in industrial labs.

Uses & applications

Primarily used for decorative purposes, jewelry (pendants, beads, rings), and in metaphysical circles for its aesthetic and purported healing properties. It is a popular 'worry stone'.

Geological facts

Many people mistake opalite for natural opal or moonstone, but it is actually a glass product. A simple way to check is to look for tiny air bubbles trapped inside, which are common in glass but absent in natural stones.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its 'Tyndall effect'—it appears blue against dark backgrounds and honey-orange when held up to a light source. It is consistently smooth and lacks the layered play-of-color found in precious natural opal. Found in gift and gem shops globally.