Selenite

Gemstone - Selenite

Quick Facts

Mineral Name: Gypsum (Variety: Selenite)
Common Names: Selenite, Satin Spar
Chemical Formula: CaSO₄·2H₂O (Hydrated Calcium Sulfate)
Mineral Class: Sulfate
Hardness (Mohs Scale): 2 (Very soft, can be scratched with a fingernail)
Primary Source: Found in vast deposits throughout Morocco.

What is Selenite?
Selenite is the transparent, crystalline variety of the common mineral Gypsum. Its name is derived from the Greek word selēnē, meaning "moon," due to the soft, pearly, moon-like glow it often exhibits. When Gypsum forms in fibrous, silky masses, it is called Satin Spar, though this name is often used interchangeably with Selenite in the marketplace.
Composition & Appearance

Color: Typically colorless, white, or off-white. It can sometimes have a yellowish or brownish hue from mineral inclusions.
Crystal Habit: Moroccan Selenite is most famous in its fibrous Satin Spar form, which is carved into wands, towers, spheres, and charging plates. It also forms as clear, tabular blades or crystals.
Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to pearly on crystal faces. The fibrous Satin Spar variety has a distinct silky luster that produces a beautiful chatoyancy (cat's-eye effect).
Key Characteristics: Its extreme softness (Hardness 2) is its most defining feature. It is also slightly flexible and can be damaged by water, so it should never be soaked or cleansed with liquids.

Morocco is one of the world's largest and most important commercial sources for Selenite (specifically the Satin Spar variety). The vast, ancient evaporated seabeds in the country have left behind immense deposits of high-quality Gypsum. This abundance allows for the mining of large blocks that are perfect for carving into the popular polished items seen all over the world. Moroccan Selenite is the standard for most of the wands, lamps, and charging plates found on the metaphysical market.

Metaphysical & Elemental Associations (The following information is based on metaphysical and crystal healing beliefs, not scientific study.)

Associated Chakras: Third Eye (Ajna) & Crown (Sahasrara)
Selenite is a very high-vibration crystal, renowned for its ability to cleanse and purify energy. It is powerfully connected to the Third Eye and Crown Chakras, opening the mind to spiritual connection, angelic consciousness, and higher guidance. It is one of the few stones believed to be self-cleansing and is often used to cleanse and charge other crystals.
Natural Element: Wind/Air
Selenite's ethereal, high-frequency energy aligns it with the Wind/Air element. This element governs the mind, communication, and the realm of spirit. Selenite is believed to clear mental fog, promote clarity of thought, and facilitate communication with the spiritual realm.