Opalite
Synthesized Glass / Simulated Opal · Decorative Stone / Synthetic Gemstone
Crystal System
Amorphous
Mineral Group
Man-made Glass / Silicate Simulant
Chemical Formula
SiO2 (glass matrix with metallic oxides)
Formation Process
Laboratory synthesized by melting silicon dioxide with metal oxides under controlled thermal conditions.
About This Crystal
The specimen features a smooth, polished, rounded rectangular bead (cabochon) with a milky, translucent white body and a striking bluish luminescence or glowing orange-yellow flash across the center, mimicking natural opal.
Physical Characteristics
Color is milky white with blue/orange adularescence; streak is white; vitreous to greasy luster; conchoidal fracture; specific gravity is approximately 2.4; brittle tenacity; no cleavage due to amorphous glass structure.
Optical Properties
Isotropic (singly refractive); displays strong adularescence with a characteristic internal blue glow when lit from the side and a warm orange/yellow glow when lit from below.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Manufactured globally (primarily China and India)
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 5.5 to 6; fair durability; prone to scratching by harder minerals like quartz; sensitive to thermal shock and harsh impacts.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with mild soapy water and a soft cloth; avoid ultrasonic cleaners, harsh chemicals, and extreme temperature changes; store separately to prevent scratching.
Rarity & Value
Common and inexpensive; widely available as tumbled stones, beads, wands, and carvings.
Special Characteristics
Displays pronounced opalescence and adularescence, creating a glowing phantom-like color play under directional lighting.
Lore & History
Popular in modern crystal healing and new-age practices as a stone of transition, inner strength, and psychic communication. Clears energy blockages and balances the chakras, though these are traditional and spiritual beliefs without scientific validation.