Comparison · Semi-Precious Stones vs Materials
Moonstone vs Opalite
Moonstone and Opalite are easy to confuse. Both sit near Mohs 6, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead. Below is a side-by-side comparison of their properties and the quick tests that separate them.
Key differences between Moonstone and Opalite
- Both sit near Mohs 6, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead.
- Streak color differs: Moonstone leaves a white streak on unglazed porcelain, Opalite leaves white to colorless.
- They overlap in white and blue, but Moonstone also comes in gray and pink and Opalite also comes in yellow.
- Well-formed crystals give it away: Moonstone is monoclinic, Opalite is amorphous.
Moonstone vs Opalite properties
| Property | Moonstone | Opalite |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Semi-Precious Stones | Materials |
| Mohs hardness | 6 | 5.5 |
| Luster | vitreous | vitreous |
| Streak | White | White to colorless |
| Transparency | translucent | translucent |
| Specific gravity | 2.6 | 2.4 |
| Crystal system | monoclinic | amorphous |
| Common colors | White, Gray, Peach, Blue sheen | Milky White, Blue, Yellow, Opalescent |
| Rarity | uncommon | common |
| Typical specimen value | $10–$500+ | $3–$70+ |
Which is more valuable?
Moonstone is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $50 against $15 for Opalite, and premium Moonstone can reach $500 or more.
About Moonstone
Moonstone is a feldspar mineral known for its adularescence—a billowy blue-white light that moves across the surface like moonlight on water.
About Opalite
Opalite is a retail trade name for manmade opalescent glass and related opal simulants, commonly sold as tumbled stones or jewelry.
Moonstone vs Opalite FAQ
Is Moonstone the same as Opalite?
No. Moonstone is a semi-precious stone while Opalite is a material. Both sit near Mohs 6, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead.
How can you tell Moonstone from Opalite?
Both sit near Mohs 6, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead. Streak color differs: Moonstone leaves a white streak on unglazed porcelain, Opalite leaves white to colorless. They overlap in white and blue, but Moonstone also comes in gray and pink and Opalite also comes in yellow.
Which is harder, Moonstone or Opalite?
Moonstone is harder: Mohs 6 against Mohs 5.5 for Opalite.
Which is more valuable, Moonstone or Opalite?
Moonstone is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $50 against $15 for Opalite, and premium Moonstone can reach $500 or more.
