mineral
Opalite
Synthetic Opalite (Man-made glass)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 5-5.5 (Mohs scale); Color: Iridescent milky white to blue; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal structure: Amorphous; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.4-2.6
- Hardness
- 5-5
- Color
- Iridescent milky white to blue
- Luster
- Vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5-5.5 (Mohs scale); Color: Iridescent milky white to blue; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal structure: Amorphous; Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.4-2.6
Formation & geological history
Opalite is a man-made variety of glass created by melting silica together with metals (usually dolomite and magnesium) to create an iridescent effect. It is not naturally occurring and lacks a geological age as it is manufactured in industrial glass factories.
Uses & applications
Used primarily in jewelry, decorative ornaments, and spiritual/metaphysical practices. It is often sold as 'healing crystals' or affordable substitutes for natural moonstone or opal.
Geological facts
While often confused with natural opal or moonstone, Opalite is entirely synthetic. When held against a light source, it often displays a warm orange or amber glow, whereas against a dark background, it appears primarily blue.
Field identification & locations
Identify by looking for small air bubbles (common in glass) and a lack of natural inclusions. It has a uniform opalescence that natural stones rarely achieve. In the field, you will not find this in a natural outcrop; it is solely found in retail markets.
