Opal and Opalite Gemstone Beads

Opalite Beads (Opalized "Quartz") from Rings & Things:
Opalite beads are also known as moonstone quartz, opalized quartz, and sea opal. With a little research we discovered that these "gemstone" beads (along with many gemstones circulating in the market) are actually glass masquerading as natural stones. These beads are distinguishable from natural semiprecious stones by occasional, accidental bubble inclusions and a lower resistance to scratches and breakage. Nevertheless, manmade opalite is beautiful, and it is cut, faceted, and polished just like any other gemstone. Opalite beads have a cloudy center and few visible inclusions. They project a blue sheen when worn against most colors, but take on a yellowish tinge when placed next to white.

Pink opalite beads display a cloudy pink color with shimmering qualities. (Although it was very pretty, we no longer stock Pink Opalite, because too often, the pink hue was simply a plastic-y coating on the outside of the bead, and the coating could peel off.)

See Also:

Jewelry Findings & Components

Birthstone Jewelry Components

Tourmaline Gemstone Beads