Opalite
Synthetic Glass / Opalized Glass · Decorative Stone / Synthetic Gemstone
Crystal System
Amorphous
Mineral Group
Man-made glass simulator
Chemical Formula
SiO2 with trace metal oxides (typically man-made glass)
Formation Process
Artificially manufactured in a laboratory setting by melting silicon dioxide and other minerals rapidly to form an amorphous solid.
About This Crystal
A tumbled, smooth, polished, rounded pebble shape. It exhibits a milky, translucent to semi-translucent body with a distinct bluish glow under normal light and an orange or peach-toned play of light when viewed from certain angles or against a light source. It has a vitreous, glossy luster.
Physical Characteristics
Color ranges from milky white to pale blue with an orange-to-yellowish internal glow. Streak is white. Cleavage is none due to amorphous structure. Fracture is conchoidal. Specific gravity is approximately 2.40 to 2.50. Tenacity is brittle.
Optical Properties
Isotropic (singly refractive). Refractive index is around 1.50. Exhibits a strong opalescence-like milky-blue glow in reflected light and warm orange/yellow tones in transmitted light.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Manufactured globally, primarily in China, India, and the United States
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness is around 5.5 to 6, making it softer than natural quartz and relatively easy to scratch. Toughness is moderate, but it can chip or break if dropped on hard surfaces.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, harsh chemicals, and prolonged exposure to extreme heat or sudden temperature changes. Store separately to prevent scratching by harder stones.
Rarity & Value
Common and widely accessible. Inexpensive, usually sold as an affordable tumbled stone or polished carving. No natural treatments required as it is entirely synthetic.
Special Characteristics
Displays a striking dual-color optical phenomenon where it appears cool blue in reflected light and warm orange/peach in transmitted light, mimicking natural opal or moonstone.
Lore & History
Popularly known in modern metaphysical circles as a stone of transition, inner peace, and emotional healing. Often associated with the third eye and crown chakras. Note that these are contemporary, esoteric beliefs and have no scientific backing, as opalite is a synthetic glass and has no ancient historical lore.