Crystalpedia: Opalite Meaning, Properties, and Benefits
Summary of Opalite
| Stone | Opalite |
|---|---|
| Color | Milky white with an opalescent glow, shifting to blue and soft hues of pink when light passes through |
| Composition | Man-made glass with opalescent qualities |
| Mohs Hardness | 5.5 – 6 |
| Chakras | Crown Chakra |
| Elements | Earth, Water |
| Astrological Signs | Cancer, Libra, Scorpio |
Opalite is a synthetic crystal, known for its soft, milky appearance and the beautiful glow that appears under light. Though not a naturally occurring gemstone, it is widely loved for its calming energy and aesthetic appeal. Opalite symbolizes tranquility, communication, and emotional balance, making it an excellent stone for enhancing spiritual growth and mental clarity.
What is Opalite?
Opalite, despite its name, is not a naturally occurring opal but rather a man-made stone, created from glass. Its distinguishing feature is its ability to shimmer with different colors depending on the light. When viewed in a natural light setting, it takes on a blue hue, while in artificial light, it appears more milky and translucent.
Physical/Geological Properties
Opalite is composed of glass, treated to create its distinctive opalescent look. It's soft compared to other gemstones, registering a 5.5-6 on the Mohs hardness scale. It doesn’t have the same geological background as natural stones, but its visual appeal has made it popular in jewelry and metaphysical practices.
Color Variation and Optical Characteristics
Milky White Opalite: The most common type, it reflects hues of soft pink, blue, and purple under certain lighting conditions.
Blue Opalite: This variant appears more vivid under natural sunlight, showing a luminous blue hue.
Iridescence: Opalite has an opalescent glow that shifts in colors, creating an ethereal, dreamy effect, especially when light passes through it.
History and Legend of Opalite
Opalite doesn’t have ancient legends associated with it since it’s a modern, man-made creation. However, its connection to the mesmerizing quality of opals ties it to the mysticism and folklore of ancient cultures that revered opal. Opal was considered a stone of vision and prophecy by ancient Greeks, while Romans associated it with hope and purity. Though Opalite doesn’t carry the same ancient historical weight, its beauty evokes a sense of wonder and calm, lending itself to a variety of spiritual practices.
Healing Properties of Opalite
Feng Shui
In Feng Shui, Opalite is often placed in areas of the home to promote peace, balance, and harmony. It is especially useful in meditation spaces, helping create a calm atmosphere that encourages focus and mindfulness. As a water element stone, Opalite is great for promoting emotional flow and can be placed in areas that need a soothing energy boost.
Spiritual Healing Properties
Opalite is a stone of transition, helping individuals move smoothly through periods of change. It aids in improving communication, both spiritually and in daily life, by helping clear blockages in the throat chakra. This makes Opalite a powerful crystal for enhancing clarity and understanding.
Metaphysical Properties
Opalite is known to enhance psychic abilities, particularly clairvoyance. It is used in meditation to help open the mind to higher guidance and assist in achieving deeper insights. Opalite also encourages persistence and gives strength in overcoming fatigue or exhaustion.
Body Healing Properties
Opalite is said to stabilize mood swings and purify the blood. It has a reputation for improving energy levels, relieving fatigue, and supporting the healing of conditions related to the respiratory system.
Relationship Between Opalite and Astrological Signs
Opalite resonates strongly with Cancer, Libra, and Scorpio. These signs benefit from the calming, balancing nature of Opalite:
Cancer: Opalite helps Cancers maintain emotional balance and feel safe expressing their emotions. It encourages open communication, which helps overcome Cancers' tendency to retreat into their shell.
Libra: As a sign associated with harmony and peace, Libra is drawn to Opalite's ability to bring calm and clarity. It helps them make fair decisions by cutting through confusion and indecision.
Scorpio: Opalite assists Scorpio in exploring their emotional depths without being overwhelmed. It brings a sense of calm and clarity to their intense emotional and spiritual pursuits.
Relationship Between Chakras
Opalite is primarily connected to the Crown Chakra, located at the top of the head. This chakra governs spiritual consciousness, enlightenment, and higher understanding. When this chakra is balanced, one can experience a stronger connection to the universe and feel more attuned to spiritual wisdom. Opalite helps clear energy blockages in the Crown Chakra, allowing for better meditation experiences, increased intuition, and spiritual awakening.
Relationship Between Opalite and the Chinese Five Phases
In Chinese philosophy, the Five Phases—Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water—symbolize different aspects of energy and life cycles. Opalite is primarily associated with the Water element due to its soothing, flowing energy.
Water Element: Opalite’s fluid, calming qualities resonate with the Water element, which governs emotions, intuition, and spirituality. It helps one adapt to changes and navigate emotional challenges with ease, much like water flowing around obstacles.
Earth Element: There is a subtle connection between Opalite and the Earth element, as the stone also supports grounding during emotional turmoil.
How to Use Opalite: Cleaning, Maintenance, Purification, and Taboos
Opalite is relatively easy to maintain, but it requires care because it’s softer than many gemstones. Here’s how to keep it in good condition:
Cleaning: Clean Opalite using a soft cloth and warm water. Avoid harsh chemicals, which can damage its finish.
Purification: To energetically cleanse Opalite, you can use smudging techniques, place it under the moonlight, or bury it in the earth for 24 hours to reset its energy.
Taboos: Do not expose Opalite to prolonged direct sunlight, as it can cause the stone to lose its opalescent glow over time.
How to Choose a Real/Good Opalite
Opalite is often mistaken for natural opal, so it’s essential to know what you’re buying. Here are tips for choosing quality Opalite:
Check for Opalescence: Genuine Opalite has a distinct glow when light passes through it. Look for the smooth transition of colors from blue to pinkish hues.
Surface Quality: Ensure the Opalite is free from cracks and inclusions. It should have a smooth, glassy finish without bubbles inside.
Source: Since Opalite is man-made, always buy from reputable sellers to avoid being misled.
Popular Products and Pairing Stones
Opalite is popular in jewelry because of its radiant beauty. Here are some of the best ways to wear Opalite:
Opalite Pendants: Wearing Opalite near the heart helps improve emotional clarity and balance.
Opalite Earrings: These will stimulate spiritual growth by staying in close proximity to the Crown Chakra.
Opalite Bracelets: Wearing Opalite against the pulse helps its energy flow throughout the body.
Pairing Stones:
Amethyst: Works well with Opalite to enhance spiritual awareness.
Rose Quartz: Compliments Opalite’s emotional healing properties and supports love and compassion.
Final Thoughts on Opalite
Opalite’s beauty is undeniable, and though it’s a man-made crystal, its metaphysical and healing properties are cherished by many. Its soothing energy, opalescent glow, and symbolic connection to emotional balance make it an excellent choice for those seeking tranquility and clarity in their lives. Whether used in meditation, worn as jewelry, or placed in a calming environment, Opalite is a gem that brings peace and a soft sense of inner illumination.