gemstone

Synthetic opal cabochon/bead

Opal-like hydrated amorphous silica; likely lab-created polymer–silica opal or Gilson synthetic opal (SiO₂·nH₂O)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Vivid blue-green body color with patchy play-of-color and a smooth polished surface; opal is amorphous, non-cleaving, Mohs hardness 5.5–6.5, vitreous-to-resinous luster, and specific gravity about 1.98–2.20. The unusually uniform cylindrical form and intense pattern strongly suggest synthetic rather than natural opal.

Identified August 28, 2026More gemstone →

Explore Synthetic opal cabochon/bead in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

At a glance

Common name: Synthetic opal cabochon/bead
Scientific name: Opal-like hydrated amorphous silica; likely lab-created polymer–silica opal or Gilson synthetic opal (SiO₂·nH₂O)
Category: gemstone
Identified: August 28, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Approximately $5–$30 for a common synthetic bead; comparable natural opal could range from $20 to several hundred dollars depending on play-of-color and provenance.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Natural opal forms when silica-rich groundwater deposits hydrated silica in cavities and fractures, commonly in volcanic rocks, over millions of years. Synthetic opal is manufactured by arranging silica spheres and binding them into a stable gem material.

Uses & applications

Used in jewelry, beads, cabochons, and decorative objects; synthetic material is generally inexpensive and durable enough for occasional wear.

Geological facts

Play-of-color results from diffraction of light by regularly spaced microscopic silica structures. Natural blue-green opal can occur in Australia, Ethiopia, Mexico, and Nevada, while synthetic opal is widely produced commercially.

Field identification & locations

Check for a drilled bead opening, perfectly regular color pattern, and a plastic-like feel; magnification may reveal a honeycomb or columnar pattern typical of synthetic opal. Avoid prolonged heat, chemicals, and ultrasonic cleaning.