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Selenite is a stone of exceptional beauty
Number of products : 5What is selenite?
Selenite is a transparent or translucent variety of gypsum (CaSO₄·2H₂O) with a pearly, glassy luster. It is a mineral with an extremely delicate structure, often forming long, fibrous crystals or plate-like formations. Its name comes from the Greek word selēnē, meaning Moon, due to its characteristic milky-white glow.
Selenite is known for its softness and susceptibility to dissolution in water, which distinguishes it from other minerals with a similar appearance, such as quartz.
Physical and chemical properties of selenite
|
Feature |
Description |
|---|---|
|
Chemical composition |
CaSO₄·2H₂O (hydrated calcium sulfate) |
|
Hardness (Mohs scale) |
2 (very soft) |
|
Density |
2.3 g/cm³ |
|
Color |
Colorless, white, creamy, sometimes with orange, pink or gray shades |
|
Luster |
Glassy, silky, pearly |
|
Transparency |
Translucent to transparent |
|
Cleavage |
Excellent (easily splits into thin layers) |
|
Solubility |
Sensitive to water – may gradually dissolve |
Varieties of selenite
Selenite occurs in various forms, which differ in appearance and structure:
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Classic selenite – transparent, plate-like crystals with a characteristic silky sheen.
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Desert rose – a form of selenite formed in deserts, in which thin layers of the mineral form a shape resembling a rose.
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Satin selenite (Satin Spat) – a fibrous variety, often milky white in color, forming columnar structures. Stained selenite – natural impurities can give it a yellowish, orange or pink color.
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Colored selenite – natural impurities can give it a yellowish, orange or pink color.
Origin and occurrence
Selenite is formed by the evaporation of water rich in calcium sulfate. It is commonly found in lake, desert and marine deposits.
The most important selenite deposits are located in:
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Mexico (Crystal Cave in Naica – giant selenite crystals)
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Spain
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USA (Oklahoma, Utah, California)
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Morocco
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Russia
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Poland (the Świętokrzyskie Mountains and the vicinity of Wieliczka)
Uses of selenite
1. Jewelry and ornaments
Due to its softness, selenite is rarely used in classic jewelry, but it is ideal for the production of:
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sculptures,
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candlesticks,
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meditation balls,
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obelisk and decorative pyramids.
2. Esotericism and lithotherapy
Selenite is one of the most valued stones in spiritual practices. It is believed to have the following properties:
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energy cleansing – used to neutralize negative energy,
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intuition development – supports meditation and chakra work,
-
mind harmonization – helps with relaxation and inner balance.
Selenite is often used to cleanse other stones – simply place the minerals on its surface to “renew” their energy.
3. Collecting
Due to its unusual appearance and large crystals, selenite is a sought-after mineral among collectors.
4. Industry
Gypsum (of which selenite is composed) is widely used in:
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construction (production of cardboard and gypsum boards),
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agriculture (improvement of soil structure),
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cosmetics industry (additive to powders and paints).
How to distinguish real selenite?
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Softness – it can be scratched with a fingernail.
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Fissility – it breaks easily into thin layers.
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Reaction to water – selenite can gradually dissolve in a humid environment.
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Silky sheen – resembles the rays of the moon.
How to care for selenite?
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Avoid contact with water – it may dissolve or lose its shine.
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Clean with a dry cloth – preferably microfiber.
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Store in a dry place – moisture can damage its structure.
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Do not expose to strong impacts – it is very fragile.
Summary
Selenite is a unique mineral with a beautiful, silky sheen that has fascinated people for centuries. It is valued both in esotericism and interior design. Its delicacy requires proper storage and care, but when properly cared for, it remains one of the most beautiful natural stones.