Opalite
Synthetic Glass var. Opalised Glass · Decorative Stone / Man-made Simulant
Crystal System
Amorphous (Non-crystalline); fashioned into a hexagonal prismatic point habit
Mineral Group
Silicates (Synthetic Glass Class)
Chemical Formula
SiO2 + Metal Oxides (man-made silicon dioxide-based glass)
Formation Process
Industrial melting and cooling process where metallic elements (such as copper, silver, or gold) are added to molten glass to create opalescence
About This Crystal
A man-made translucent to semi-opaque glass with a distinct milkiness. It exhibits a luminous quality with a pale blue glow against dark backgrounds and a warm, orange-amber glow when light passes through it.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Milky white to pale blue; Streak: White; Cleavage: None; Fracture: Conchoidal (shell-like); Specific Gravity: ~2.4 - 2.5; Fluorescence: Often inert but can show dull green or yellow under UV light.
Optical Properties
Singly refractive; exhibits a 'Tyndall Effect' (scattering of light) which creates the characteristic opalescence; no birefringence or pleochroism.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Global manufacturing hubs (primarily China and India); not a naturally mined mineral
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness: 5.5 to 6; brittle tenacity; susceptible to scratching by quartz and harder gemstones; prone to chipping at the sharp edges of the point.
Care & Maintenance
Wash with warm soapy water and a soft cloth; avoid ultrasonic cleaners which can cause thermal shock; store separately to prevent scratches; avoid harsh household chemicals.
Rarity & Value
Common; very affordable mass-produced material; value is determined by the quality of the cut and jewelry setting rather than the material itself.
Special Characteristics
Displays distinct opalescence and a 'glow' effect; lacks the 'play-of-color' (flashes) seen in natural precious opal, appearing more as a uniform milky haze.
Lore & History
A modern 'synthetic' stone popular in New Age practices; traditionally associated with transition, communication, and emotional balance. Historically, it was created to mimic the appearance of natural moonstone or opal at a lower cost.