Opalite play

This Opalite pendulum 32mm selection weighs 8g. Opalite is an artificial form of opal an amorphous rock, lacking a crystalline structure.

Opal is formed when silicic acid gel loses its water and solidifies. Tiny silicon dioxide globules are formed in with a small amount of water and gas enclosed. These globules bend light, giving the opal its wonderful play of colour. The flashing colours are called fire or opalescence. The fire appears as sparkles of vivid colours floating on top of the stone.

Colour: black, blue, green, pink, red, white; iridescent or pearly

Transparency: opaque, translucent, transparent

Lustre: vitreous, waxy

Crystal system: amorphous

Fracture: uneven

Hardness: 5.5-6.5

Mineral group: silicates

Formula: SiO₂·nH₂O

Location: Australia (97 per cent) Ethiopia, Madagascar, Mexico, USA

Rarity: rare, extremely rare

Chakra: Throat, Crown

Emotional: amplifies, awareness, desire, eroticism, release inhibitions, seduction, sexuality, soothing

Mental/intellectual: amplifies, love of life, optimism, spontaneity, unconventional thinking

Spiritual: angelic beings, chakra rebalancing, creativity, inspiration, protection, purification. Brings forth the muse.

Astrology: Libra

Number: 8; Pink Opal, 6; Black Opal, 1

Birthstone: October