What is Opalite Crystal?
We are often asked: Are Opalite and Opal the same thing? Is Opalite manmade? The simple answer is this: Opalite is a manmade gemstone, although its makeup differs slightly depending on the workshop that creates it. Our Opalite crystals, like most, are a type of manmade Obsidian, meaning that they are glass with a proprietary blend of metals and other materials melted together to give it the milky semi-iridescent shine that collectors love. The milky, rainbowy Opalite known by many crystal collectors is not a natural stone that occurs in the depths of the Earth. Rather, it is a product of human creativity and imagination.
Other crystal shops may stock glass Opalite or resin Opalite, and some sources state that they use reconstituted Opal in their Opalite to produce the shine. What this means is that even as a manmade stone, Opalite can vary quite a bit from piece to piece. This results in varying levels of translucency and color, and because Opalite is made of glass or resin, it may feature streaks or bubbles within the material. At times, this makes for an ethereal, fairytale appearance.. and sometimes not so much.
Any crystal shop, whether they are near you or an online store, should always be clear that Opalite is a manmade crystal. Uninformed shops may try to sell Opalite as natural Opal, or even as Moonstone, but remember: Opalite crystals are manmade. Opalite and Opal are not the same, and neither are Opalite and Moonstone. Opal and Moonstone are both natural gems, while this is not the case with Opalite.
Despite this, the milky rainbow beauty of manmade Opalite makes it a highly popular gemstone for decoration, meditation, and crystal jewelry. Opalite crystals are also often incorporated into suncatchers, since it shows off its spellbinding loveliness best when bright light shines through it. As with other manmade gemstones, such as Blue Goldstone, Indigo Obsidian, and others, Opalite is a crystal that many practitioners incorporate into their spiritual work, using it to channel energy and focus intent. Each person's experience and feelings regarding the use of manmade stones differs, so it is important to determine the recipient's preference if you are considering an Opalite crystal as a gift for friends or family.
Opalite Meaning and Metaphysical Properties
Opalite resonates strongly with several Chakras-- Solar Plexus Chakra, Throat Chakra, Third Eye Chakra, and Crown Chakra-- and is known for facilitating many traits that make us more aware of opportunities for growth, prosperity, and happiness. Opalite crystal is often used as a focal stone for manifesting success, since it is associated with self confidence, creativity, forthright communication, awareness, and self empowerment. Opalite's influence is said to be one that helps us to recognize and appreciate our own powers, abilities, and potential, making it easier for us to maintain healthy boundaries and draw the things we want in life toward us. Working with Opalite is an uplifting, encouraging experience, which is why this crystal gem is often chosen for daily use and makes a fantastic focal stone for anyone working in a negative environment.
How to Cleanse Opalite
As a manmade stone, Opalite's hardness can vary depending on the materials used to create it. Typically, manmade Opalite is around a 5.5 on the Mohs scale, and is alright for submersion since most varieties of Opalite are made of glass. However, please remember that Opalite can still break or become scratched, so it is important to handle it carefully and avoid dropping or smacking it against other stones. When in doubt, we always suggest charging and cleansing crystals with a Selenite bowl or exposure to Full Moonlight, since these methods will not harm your crystals. Smoke Cleansing with Sage, Palo Santo, Incense, or dried herbs is another safe way to cleanse your Opalite crystal.