Opalite
Synthetic Glass (Man-made) · Simulant / Decorative Stone
Crystal System
Amorphous (Non-crystalline); molded into decorative shapes like this mushroom
Mineral Group
Man-made Glass
Chemical Formula
SiO2 + Metal Dopants (often containing various glass-making additives)
Formation Process
Industrial melting of silica and minerals in a furnace, followed by rapid cooling and molding
About This Crystal
A translucent to milky white man-made glass that exhibits a distinct blue glow in indirect light and a warm, honey-orange glow when light passes through it. It has a vitreous (glassy) luster and a smooth, polished surface.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Milky blue/white (transmitted light: orange); Streak: White; Cleavage: None; Fracture: Conchoidal (shell-like); Specific Gravity: ~2.4-2.6; Fluorescence: Generally inert but may vary based on dopants.
Optical Properties
Singly refractive; exhibits a strong opalescent effect (Tyndall scattering) where light scatter creates blue hues, while transmitted light appears orange-yellow.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Produced globally in industrial glass manufacturing facilities (often China)
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness: 5.5 to 6; Brittle; moderate durability but prone to scratching and chipping if dropped on hard surfaces.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth; avoid ultrasonic cleaners which may shatter glass; avoid harsh chemicals and extreme thermal shock.
Rarity & Value
Common; very inexpensive. Value is based on the decorative carving rather than material rarity. Often sold as a low-cost alternative to Moonstone or Opal.
Special Characteristics
Dramatic color-shift between reflected (blue) and transmitted (orange) light, mimicking the optical properties of a natural opal or moonstone through light scattering.
Lore & History
As a modern man-made material, it lacks ancient history. In modern crystal healing, it is associated with transition, inner strength, and clearing energy blockages. It is often used as a 'placeholder' for genuine opal in affordable jewelry and carvings.