Selenite is a type of gypsum. The very one whose significance for humans has been known for a long time. It is used in medicine and in the chemical industry. In the construction business you cannot do without it.
But there are varieties of simple gypsum, whose beauty people have long used to decorate their lives. Selenite and alabaster were used in different religions - the first has an iridescent sheen, the second looks like marble, translucent at the edges. Both varieties were used to make religious objects, containers for storing medicines and cosmetics. It is difficult to describe the beauty of minerals, just as it is difficult to describe the beauty of moonlight to the blind.
Colors and varieties
Selenite is a stone with a pearlescent or silky luster, translucent, white or gray. Reminds me of a lollipop. There are transparent and colorless crystals. Due to the presence of various impurities, the stone may have pastel shades:
- Blue.
Blue selenite
- Yellow.
Yellow selenite
- Beige.
Beige selenite
- Pink.
Pink Selenite
There is a black variety of the mineral called labradorite. Gems mined along the banks of the Iren River range in color from milky white to dark brown.
The most beautiful and rare are copper-yellow and golden selenite.
Golden selenite
The beauty of the gem is emphasized by the iridescent effect, expressed in the movement of the light strip when the viewing angle changes. The mineral is also classified according to the place where it was discovered. For example, a stone found on the shores of the White Sea is called “Belomorite”. In the east, this mineral is called the saliva of the moon (“afrusalinus”).
History and origin
The mineral was named selenite by the chemist Berzelius in 1817. It is believed that the stone received this name in honor of the Greek goddess Selene. In some countries it is called oriental alabaster, Egyptian or Ural stone. With its extraordinary radiance, it resembles moonstone, but this is the name of a different mineral. These concepts should not be confused.
Selenite
Selenite was used to make jewelry, crafts and dishes back in the ancient states of Sumer and Urartu.
As a result of archaeological excavations, many ritual accessories made from this gem were found, which were used by shamans, sorcerers and witches.
This is explained by the magical properties of selenite. In medieval paintings depicting the interior of noble houses, you can find figurines made of minerals. During this period, church utensils were made from the material.
Formula | CaSO4*2H2O |
Color | White, but more often it is colored with impurities in yellowish, bluish or pinkish shades |
Shine | Pearl |
Transparency | Translucent, translucent |
Hardness | 2 |
Cleavage | Perfect |
Kink | Conchoidal |
Density | 2.31—2.33 g/cm³ |
In the 19th century, the mineral was found in Russia in the Perm region, where it is still mined. This snow-white crystal, which is used to decorate the Winter Palace, quickly became a popular ornamental material. Ural craftsmen made various figures and decorations from it. Selenite products have gained nationwide popularity. The most common were selenite elephants.
Nature of Selenite
The translucent mineral is the result of fossilization of sedimentary materials. Formed in clay and sandy rocks in the form of fibers and veins. It is a crystalline variety of gypsum, with thin fibers intergrown in parallel, thanks to which selenite obtains an iridescent optical effect with a silky sheen.
Selenite
Crystals consist of a large number of thin plates. The material is very fragile, soft, and easy to polish. By definition of mineralogy, it is hydrous calcium sulfate.
Mineral deposits
A piece of selenite found in the area of the Kungur Ice Cave
The mineral selenite is mined in many countries around the world. These include:
- Australia;
- Egypt;
- USA;
- Mexico;
- Canada;
- France;
- Germany;
- Russia.
The largest examples of the gem are found in Mexico. As for Russian deposits, they are among the richest in the world. Since the 19th century, the stone has been mined in the Perm region, on the banks of the Iren River near the city of Kungur. This is the Ural region of the country. The veins are located shallow underground, so it is most convenient to mine the rock using an open pit method.
Where to find selenite
The largest Russian deposits of selenite stones are located in the Perm region (Kungursky district, slopes of the Iren River, Fedorovskoye and Na Shumu deposits).
Local residents who used to work in the branch of the Ural Stone Cutter still extract stones using artisanal methods, like their great-grandfathers. This is not always a safe matter. But this doesn’t stop mineral lovers. Penkovskaya Mountain, Morozovsky Stone, Denisovskoye deposit still give translucent, pink, honey, white mineral to those who want to find it.
Selenite raw peach
There are many countries abroad that have deposits of the mineral:
- Australia;
- France;
- USA;
- Canada;
- Germany;
- Mexico;
- Egypt.
In the neighboring countries, Tajikistan can boast of selenite deposits.
Siberian selenite can be found in the Irkutsk region. There are large deposits of gypsum and its ornamental varieties. However, Siberia is not considered as a source of ornamental raw materials. Unlike the Ural stone, whose connoisseurs since the 19th century have appreciated the beauty of the translucent gem and the delicate shades of colors, Siberians did not pay much attention to the mineral.
Magical properties of selenite
Golden Fish - figurine made of Selenite stone
According to many peoples, selenite has magical properties. Such characteristics of the stone are determined by its connection with the energy of the Moon. It affects women and men differently. Girls become more romantic and tender, and men become more courageous, they are drawn to exploits.
The magical properties of the stone have been studied for a long time. Yogis use it in telepathic sessions. Apart from this, Hindus believe that Selenite has the ability to develop memory and the gift of eloquence in the wearer, making it suitable for lecturers, announcers, lawyers, teachers and politicians.
The mineral calms and cleanses the mind, strengthens the will. These beliefs were carried over to England.
The stone is capable of:
- strengthen attachment to home;
- develop emotionality and sensuality;
- stimulate pleasant experiences;
- make a person softer and more gentle;
- protect from troubles and unwise actions.
An amulet or amulet made from this material is capable of programming the owner’s consciousness for good luck in all areas of life, teaching him to subconsciously avoid trouble, which is why the stone is suitable for businessmen. It makes a person cautious in actions and prudent in statements.
In a house where there are selenite figurines, peace, harmony and tranquility always reign.
Astrologers believe that the magical properties of the stone have a particularly strong influence on people born on a full moon.
For them, this is a must-have stone; an object made of selenite is a talisman for those born during this period. The influence of selenite can inspire an apathetic person and return him to the desire for everyday joys. Phlegmatic people are recommended to wear a talisman made from a mineral. Selenite is not suitable for those who are withdrawn or nervous and capricious; it enhances these qualities.
There is a belief that if you place a selenite figurine by your bed or put an object made of this mineral under your pillow, you will dream of a guardian angel.
Usage
The stone is widely used for making figurines, souvenirs and jewelry.
Selenite
Selenite is used to make inserts into earrings, pendants and bracelets. The unique properties of the mineral selenite make it possible to use it not only in jewelry. Boxes, candlesticks, figurines and figurines are made from this stone.
It is used:
- for the production of paints;
- for the manufacture of foundry molds in mechanical engineering;
- in the production of astringents in medicine and the chemical industry.
There is an opinion that selenite brings good luck.
Thanks to its unique properties, it is also used in the sphere of life opposite to the material one - for the manufacture of talismans, amulets and amulets.
The mineral is used by hypnotists and psychologists for pendulums.
Medicinal properties
Selenite figurine
The properties of the selenite stone, allowing it to be used in the treatment of diseases, were known to ancient Greek healers. They believed that Apollo himself, the patron saint of doctors, asked the Moon to give a healing gem to people.
Indian healers attributed the crystal's ability to ward off nightmares and insomnia. It was also believed that the mineral helps to get rid of excessive aggressiveness, nervousness, and the desire to control everything.
A little to the northeast, in the mountains of Tibet, selenite was also used to help the sick. It was used for inhalations, lotions and massage. The monks believed that the gem relieves pain from urolithiasis.
Powdered oriental alabaster was the most popular rejuvenating remedy in ancient Egypt. It helped maintain youth and elasticity of the skin. Military doctors stopped the bleeding by sprinkling crushed crystal on the wounds.
Modern lithotherapists also name a number of beneficial properties of selenite:
- It can cure infertility, improve ovulation in women and semen quality in men.
- Helps get rid of the consequences of mental and emotional stress.
- Relieves the symptoms of pyelonephritis, glomerulonephritis, cystitis.
- Lowers body temperature during fever, relieves headaches.
- Treats diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.
- Brings patients out of a state of despondency, apathy, depression, and returns stability to the emotional background.
- Meditation on the stone helps maintain visual acuity.
- Thanks to the high calcium content, bones and teeth become stronger, and joints and ligaments become more elastic.
- The frequency of fainting, hypertensive crises and epileptic seizures decreases.
It should be remembered that the stone has the best effect when worn as a pendant, so that it touches the solar plexus.
Only a natural specimen, and not a fake, has therapeutic properties.
Important!
When resorting to lithotherapy, do not forget about traditional medicine. The tablets will work better thanks to the crystal, and in general, energy medicine is most effective in combination with traditional medicine.
Why do we need selenite?
You have never been on an excursion to the Kungur Cave - and in vain. The largest gypsum cave in the Urals, 60 lakes with crystal clear water. And the grottos! “Giant”, “Diamond”, “Polar”, “Cosmic”, laser show of unreal beauty will leave an impression for a long time. In general, anyone who has not been to the Kungur Ice Cave has lost a lot.
And of course, you will buy lovely selenite figurines in local shops. You take such a silky, honey-colored miracle in your hand and you don’t want to part with it.
Even if you don’t believe in magic and lithotherapy, sweet trinkets and souvenirs made of stone with slight tints of color will delight the eyes and soul.
Travelers: if fate takes you to the Perm region, if possible, visit the Orda Museum of Local Lore. There is a very worthy exhibition of products made from selenite.
Talismans and amulets
Selenite stone product
Talismans and amulets made from the mineral can have various original forms. Souvenirs, coasters, and decorations are made from it.
- Women's jewelry: pendants, pendants. They are advised to be worn at heart level. The lunar pattern will not allow grief, doubt, or sadness into the soul.
- Men's accessories: pins, keychains, cufflinks and tie clips. Crystals can help a man become confident, strong and pragmatic. The owner believed that it was inimitable, original and beautiful.
Selenite and its magical properties made the stone a talisman for pilgrims. The crystals absorbed the power of the sacred places that believers visited. He became healing.
The talisman helps in the following actions:
- creates a program of right actions;
- avoids mistakes;
- improves relationships with people.
Gem amulets should not be given to those who are constantly in dreams that are far from reality. An irreversible change in the psyche may occur, the person will go crazy. Another dangerous situation is closed characters. For such people it will become a quality enhancer. The owner of the amulet will withdraw into himself, abandon friends, family, and begin to lead a reclusive life.
Selena's magic for everyone
- One of the important magical properties of selenite is the pacification of passions. People with impetuous, hot natures simply need to carry with them an amulet made from a mineral that soothes the eye and soul (as esotericists believe).
- Another unusual property of the stone is the ability to show “those who are always right” their mistakes. Proud, narcissistic ignoramuses need such a talisman. But the same esotericists do not recommend carrying selenite amulets with them to people who are unsure and timid.
- The magical properties of Selena's stone will help our business-minded, independent, determined women become a little more romantic and feminine.
- Jewelry made of selenite in silver will promote free flight of imagination for creative people.
- Those who make pilgrimages to holy places are advised to take a selenite amulet with them. The prayerful energy of the holy places will strengthen your little protector.
Important: if you use the magic of products made from selenite, do not forget to give the mineral “moon baths” every full moon. This will cleanse and nourish the energy of the stone. We recommend: TOP 10 facts about CHRISOLITE STONE
Areas of application
Selenite pig
Selenite is used as an inexpensive ornamental stone for the manufacture of carved artistic and household products - sculptural figurines, souvenirs, beads and inserts.
Psychologists and hypnotists willingly buy selenite pendulums. Magicians, psychics, and fortune tellers consider selenite stone a good material for amulets, amulets, and talismans.
The well-known stone-cutting industry in the Urals owes its appearance and development to Selenite; the Ural Stone-Cutting Plant, the Kungur Art Products Plant and the Kungur Stone-Cutting Art School are engaged in the processing of this stone.
Artwork made from iridescent golden selenite is presented in many museums and exhibited at many Russian and international exhibitions.
Selenite is easy to grind and polishes well. But products can quickly rub and lose polish due to low hardness, and then require new polishing.
Use and care of selenite
Selenite souvenirs are mainly animal figurines, pyramids and balls; it is not suitable for large crafts. Jewelers also insert it into earrings, bracelets, pendants and rings. The properties of the stone have allowed it to be used in industry. So, the gem is used:
- in mechanical engineering - to create foundry molds;
- for obtaining paints;
- in the production of adhesives and astringents.
Psychologists and hypnotists willingly buy selenite pendulums. Magicians, psychics, and fortune tellers consider selenite stone a good material for amulets, amulets, and talismans.
Selenite boxes look very elegant and can fit into any interior.
The stone is very fragile, so it should be protected from friction, shock, and impact. It is best to store jewelry separately from other gems, wrapped in soft cloth. Also, talismans made from eastern alabaster are afraid of cold and direct sunlight.
If your gem needs cleaning, do not use harsh household chemicals. Simply wipe it with a soft cloth soaked in a mild soap solution. After this, the decoration should be dried at room temperature. You shouldn’t clean the stone too often; the optimal period is once a year. If you scratch your treasure, take it to a jeweler for varnishing and polishing.
Selenite will respond to your careful, careful handling with gratitude. Its properties as a talisman will be enhanced, reliably protecting the wearer from adversity and black magic. Let's figure out how our stone can be useful.
Selenite products and jewelry
Beads made of Selenite stone
The price of the products is low. Selenite is not very popular among jewelry store buyers, but products made from it can often be found in crowded tourist areas.
You can give your beloved grandmother a selenite icon (costs from 3-5 dollars), and for Easter buy Easter selenite eggs. The price of an egg starts from 5-6 dollars.
In the middle of the last century, in many Soviet houses there were seven figurines of elephants, according to height. The housewives were sure that these souvenirs would not only decorate poorly decorated apartments, but also bring happiness to the family.
Why not resume the ancient tradition and place selenite elephants in your home for good luck. Plus, it won't cause much damage to your finances. This elephant costs 7-10 dollars.
Women's and men's tastes will be appreciated by the cute figurines of the Zodiac signs, carved from stone with a silky sheen and a gentle, shy glow with imagination and good-natured humor.
The cost of selenite rock is set depending on the type of mineral formation:
- shuft – from $2 to $10 per kilogram of rock;
- crystal - from 1 to 5 $ per kilogram.
A crystal that is created in natural conditions becomes valuable. Not all craftsmen undertake to work with pieces of rock. For talismans, part of an untouched sample is suitable. Therefore, the rock is split into pieces and stored as a talisman.
Confusion
Moonstone and selenite are different minerals with different chemical compositions. But people who are far from mineralogy still confuse these minerals.
Real moonstone is adularia, a feldspar that has an adularization effect, a “moon glow.”
And selenite, named after Selene, the moon goddess, is a type of gypsum. The properties of selenite stone include iridescence, which is similar to adularization. However, its physical properties are closer to the “cat’s eye” effect.
Until the 19th century, Russian stone cutters called “Maryino glass” transparent crystals of varieties of gypsum with a slight pearlescent tint.
The name did not arise by chance. Russia has long been an Orthodox country; many generations of Slavs grew up and were brought up in the religion. And there were images of the Virgin Mary in every house. Even the poorest believers tried to buy a decorated icon. Cheap selenite was well suited for these purposes. The setting for icons was made from translucent, iridescent plates of the mineral. We recommend: Anti-stress stone: GRAY AGATE
How to spot a fake
Unprocessed selenite
If you take into account the cost of the stone, then counterfeiting will most likely be unprofitable.
True, in the rarest cases (due to the seller’s ignorance) they may sell you belomorite or adularia instead of selenite. In monetary terms, you will benefit - these stones are more expensive than selenite.
But if you don’t have peace of mind without a selenite amulet, it’s not difficult to determine whether it’s the right mineral. Try running your fingernail across the stone (just remember that this is someone else's property for now). Selenite has such a small hardness that it is easy to scratch it even with a fingernail.
Physical properties of the mineral
The following properties of selenite are known:
Name | Unit | Index |
Chemical formula | — | CaSO4•2H2O |
Density | g/cm³ | 2,31-2,33 |
Hardness | Mohs scale | 1,5-2 |
Color | — | White gray |
Transparency | — | Translucent |
Structure | — | Fibrous |
Shine | — | Silky |
Description of the stone:
- The material is dense, but not hard. A value on the Mohs hardness scale indicates that the mineral can be scratched by a fingernail. Using a knife and a file, jewelry and figures are created from stone. The surface is easy to polish.
- The fibrous structure provokes the refraction of sunlight. It is responsible for the appearance of the mysterious moonlight.
- The mineral is not resistant to aggressive liquids. Gypsum crystal dissolves in water.
Important! Don't confuse selenite with moonstone. This is a completely different mineral in composition and characteristics. It belongs to the group of feldspars, is called “adularia” and is much harder than selenite.
How to care for stone
Selenite pendant 6 cm
The rules for caring for the breed are simple, anyone can follow them. Basic advice from mineralogists:
- The fragile mineral is afraid of simple pressure on the surface. Even an accidental touch with a fingernail changes the surface of an object. The easiest preservation option is varnishing. The procedure is repeated every 2 years. The varnish is colorless. It does not impair the shine and characteristics of the shades.
- For storage, look for a case similar in shape to the decoration. The more accurately it conveys the shapes, the less the object inside will move. The walls of the case should be made of soft thin foam rubber, flannel, wool, that is, fabrics with a delicate coating are needed.
- Should not be worn continuously. It is better to choose events where it will be an indispensable part of the appearance. Constant wearing will lead to a change in shape - wearing out of the contours.
- Choose a safe neighborhood. It is better not to take metal jewelry near selenite: chains, brooches. Damage may occur from accidental contact of two products.
- Afraid of high humidity, rain, ultraviolet rays. It will begin to lose its shine, shape, and spread under their influence.
It is recommended to clean it infrequently, about once a year. For care, use a soft sponge. It is soaked in soap, then the products are wiped. After treatment with a damp cloth, the decoration or souvenir is thoroughly wiped. The drier the better for the item. You cannot use aggressive substances for cleaning; they will immediately destroy the mineral.
Types of Selenite
For selenite, many different subspecies are known, which also often receive their own names and are therefore known as independent minerals. When classifying, both the appearance and the deposits of the subspecies are taken into account. For example, samples that are mined in the White Sea are called “white-morites,” and black selenites are known as “labradorites.”
What stones does it go with?
Selenite bracelet
There are several systems by which the compatibility of stones is determined. According to one of them, which is easiest to follow, you can wear simultaneously stones corresponding to the friendly elements: Fire and Air, Water and Earth.
Translucent stones, such as selenite, are associated with the element of air. Therefore, it can be worn with Air and Fire elemental stones. There are many of them, here are some of them:
- emerald;
- rhinestone;
- rose quartz;
- topaz;
- diamond;
- ruby;
- coral.
Similar to the zodiac signs, stones are associated with planets.
Selenite is associated with the Moon. Other things associated with this planet are:
- aquamarine;
- beryl;
- pearl;
- Moonstone;
- coral;
- opal;
- rhinestone;
- all colorless, white and blue stones.
Astrology for Selene Stone
Selenite is a soft stone. And not just in numbers on the traditional Mohs scale. The energy of the mineral is as unsteady, iridescent, and unclear as that of its patroness Selene, the goddess of the Moon.
Astrologers are confident that this gem will not harm any sign of the Zodiac.
Selenite figurine
According to the horoscope, the maximum “energy compatibility” of a gem is with the signs of Water and (slightly less) Earth. For earth and water signs, the night patron is the Moon, Selena.
This means that jewelry and talismans made from this mineral are ideal for Pisces, Scorpios, and Cancers.
Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn will quickly get used to jewelry made from selenite.
Signs of Fire and Air can happily wear jewelry made from the mineral, or have a piece of selenite at home. This will not cause harm, but the mineral will not provide much magical help to Gemini, Aquarius, Aries or Leo.
Interesting: astrologers claim that those born on a full moon develop a particularly close connection with Selene’s stone.
Who suits the name
Selenite
Astrologers identify the following names, which are very strongly patronized by selenite:
- Victor, Artem, Alexander, Gennady. Men with such names are purposeful in life and also very impulsive. Selenite will help them moderate their ardor, gain balance, prudence, and concentrate their attention on more important points, so as not to chop wood in the heat of the moment. As for family relationships, the stone will help you become more attentive to your loved ones and express your love for them more sensually.
- Polina, Marina, Victoria. Sometimes a woman simply needs to find more softness, sensuality, and pliability. For them, selenite will be the best assistant in the fight against selfishness and gaining feminine prudence. The prudence that such a talisman will show will protect girls with this name from rash decisions during difficult life situations.
There are several more names that are patronized by selenite:
- Bella. Girls with this name are incredibly charming, but very changeable in nature. The talisman that will bring order and harmony into her life will be belomorite (a type of selenite).
- Yana. For women with this name, a rare specimen of the mineral is suitable - black labradorite. It will help pacify the hot fervor of emotions, childish capriciousness, and relieve Yana of illusions.
- Leonid. For him, like Yana, the Labrador will serve as a talisman, giving peace to family relationships, as well as prudence in decision-making.
Jewelry with mineral
Selenite is used to create a variety of jewelry:
- rings;
- earring;
- beads;
- bracelets;
- hair jewelry;
- pendants;
- pendants
The optimal material for framing is silver. It goes best with the tone of the stone and emphasizes its shine. Gold may be used.
Beads should be worn with a blue or blue dress, which will benefit the contrast. You can wear them both to work and to the theater, cinema and other crowded places - a warm shade will show the owner’s friendliness and readiness for dialogue.
Earrings and pendants look good on young girls and active middle-aged women. Often bright patterns or designs (flowers, leaves, butterflies) are applied to the surface of the decoration, which creates a playful mood and introduces a sense of mischief. You can wear them with dark jeans and a soft dark beige jumper or a pleated blue and white checkered skirt and a green top.
A ring with a small gem is suitable for a young girl, while larger minerals will adorn an older woman.
Light shades will attract attention to the owner of the stone and set the mood for a productive conversation in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
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Figures and other souvenirs made of selenite
Selenite products are distinguished by their brilliance, originality and low price. They can be purchased for personal use or as a gift. Stone crafts:
- images of saints;
- watch;
- writing instruments;
- caskets;
- candlesticks;
- vases;
- magnets;
- panel;
- talismans, amulets;
- lamps;
- chess.
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Selenite figurines are in great demand:
- flowers on a stand;
- birds (often make owls);
- animals - cats, bears, hares, etc.;
- eggs.
Watch how a figurine is made from stone:
Caring for stone products
A fragile and soft mineral requires special care. It is forbidden:
- allow contact with water;
- drop, throw a product;
- store together with harder stones - selenite needs a separate soft box or case;
- leave in sunlight.
Cleaning is carried out 2 times a year. To do this, wipe the stone with a slightly damp cloth. If necessary, it can be moistened in a soap solution.
It is recommended to coat the mineral with a special colorless varnish every 2 years. This will increase the service life of the product by protecting its edges from abrasion.
Selenite and the zodiac signs
In astrology, selenite is considered universal - any representative of the Zodiac can wear it. But so that the stone is not just a neutral, ineffective decoration, it is better to wear it for representatives of certain signs.
Zodiac sign | Compatibility (“++” is ideal, “+” is good, “-” is bad): |
Aries | + |
Taurus | + |
Twins | ++ |
Cancer | +++ |
a lion | + |
Virgo | + |
Scales | + |
Scorpion | ++ |
Sagittarius | + |
Capricorn | + |
Aquarius | ++ |
Fish | ++ |
Story
This beautiful gem has been known to mankind since ancient times. Selenite is a stone that is named after the goddess of the Moon and the night. The mineral has the amazing property of glowing from within, and ancient people, not understanding how this happens, perceived this feature as magic, and used it as an invariable attribute for religious rituals.
For example, pilgrims setting off on a long journey took talismans made from selenite, which, in their belief, were charged with positive energy from the righteous. As for Russia, here this stone was considered ornamental. For the first time in our country it was discovered in the Perm province in 1838.
It was snow-white selenite - a stone that delights everyone who has ever seen it. Found in Siberia, this type of moonstone was used in the decoration of the Winter Palace in St. Petersburg. In fact, the beauty of the mineral is worthy of royalty! Afterwards, the Ural craftsmen made many souvenirs from it: various figurines, boxes, elephants, etc.
Description of the mineral
Selenite is a stone that people called “moon kiss”. It should in no way be confused with adularia, a moonstone. Until 1817, this mineral was called by various names, but in that memorable year the famous scientist Berzelius gave it the name by which we know it today.
However, in some parts of the world it continues to be called differently, for example, Egyptian stone or oriental alabaster. Oddly enough, selenite is a type of gypsum. This is a translucent mineral with a delicate silky shine.
At first glance, it is not immediately clear that this is selenite. The properties of the stone appear mainly in the light of the moon. It is then that it begins to glow and shimmer in shades of yellow, pink, reddish-pearl, etc. Much less often in nature you can find its snow-white varieties. They are more similar than others to moonstone, with which it is often confused.
Mining locations
Selenite is mined everywhere - its deposits are distributed throughout the world. It is found in sedimentary rock layers, mainly clay. Selenite veinlets are mined using an industrial open-pit method: the top layers of clay are removed, then the viscous layers of limestone or shale are removed, opening access to the selenite.
In Russia, the main deposits of the mineral are the slopes of the banks of the Iren River near the city of Kungur, the villages of Krasny Yasyl (Ural Stone Cutting LLC near Kungur), Vtorye Klyuchiki, Opachevka-Kungurskaya and Pavlovka.
The largest global suppliers are considered to be the USA, Canada, Egypt, Australia, and active production from European countries is in France and Germany. But the largest crystals were discovered in Mexico in the Cave of Crystals.
Origin of the stone
Selenite translated from ancient Greek means “Moon”, named after the goddess Selene and is directly related to lunar energy, which gives selenite many magical and healing properties.
It was believed that the mineral accumulates moonlight, allowing one to use its power and use the signs of fate. Another popular name at that time, which most accurately described selenite, was the kiss of the moon.
For a long time, gray selenite was a frequent attribute of black magic. According to legend, on the dark night of the full moon, selenite cries under the light of the moon, releasing its energy. Magic rituals with this mineral were always performed at midnight. Stones were often used to frame staffs and sacrificial bowls. Pilgrims took the mineral with them as a talisman, believing that it helped maintain contact with God on their journeys.
Moonstone was considered a gift from the gods, already then noting its beneficial effect on health and the ability to direct a person’s destiny. Some of the first mentions of selenite and the healing properties of the stone are found in Avicenna - the mineral was used to treat epileptic seizures and other diseases associated with weakness of body and spirit.
In animal husbandry, selenite was used to protect livestock from death.
Types and colors of selenite
Mostly milky white selenite . But now colored stones have also begun to appear quite often.
The mineral is not entirely transparent. But it is soft, stronger than gypsum, and lends itself well to grinding and polishing. It has very beautiful and mesmerizing iridescence, which is obtained when light rays attack the stone from different angles.
But selenite should not be stored with other stones, as they can scratch it and the appearance will be ruined. Rings and rings are not made with it, because, as a rule, they are constantly subject to serious mechanical damage.
Selenite in astrology
Astrologers believe that selenite is suitable for all zodiac signs. Its action will depend on the internal qualities of a person. The higher the spirituality, the better developed the moral qualities, the stronger the effect of the stone.
Effect of selenite on zodiac signs:
- Aries is characterized by unrestrainedness, desire for leadership, and stubbornness. The stone will be able to soften such manifestations of character. But at the same time, the person himself must desire change, otherwise a conflict will arise and, apart from irritation, the talisman will not bring anything to this zodiac sign;
- Taurus are practical and smart. If spirituality is also present, then selenite will fill life with meaning and happiness;
- Geminis are addicted to narcissism and consider themselves superior to others. The talisman will help them look at themselves more adequately, throw off the veneer of superiority;
- Cancer is a dual zodiac sign. Outwardly he is unapproachable, distant and often aggressive, but in his soul he is vulnerable and sensitive. This leads to internal conflicts and disagreements with others. The mineral will correct these differences, bring the mind and feelings into harmony;
- It is important for lions to understand their purpose and find a way to express themselves. But what prevents them from doing what they love is lack of self-confidence, fear of failure and criticism. Selenite will help you decide on your life goals, give you confidence, and give you inspiration;
- Virgos are grouchy and irritable. They are torn by doubts and are dissatisfied with life and people. The stone will add optimism to this sign, making it kinder and more sympathetic;
- Libra is indecisive, but does not see this as a drawback and does not strive to fight it, therefore they need talismans only when slowness begins to interfere;
- It is better not to use selenite for Scorpios. This sign balances between good and evil, so they need an unambiguous strong talisman. Selenite may not be able to withstand contradictions and let a person go into the dark world, especially without the support of the owner himself;
- for a Sagittarius, it becomes a talisman, protecting him from any evil;
- Capricorns are workaholics, this is their way of life. They get tired of work, begin to lose energy, become irritable, but they cannot let go of the situation, relax and rest. The stone will relieve tension and moderate work ardor;
- Aquarians are sensitive, whiny and hysterical. They need support and a patron. Selenite will cope with this perfectly;
- Pisces should wear selenite jewelry with caution. The stone can make them even more lazy and apathetic.
Selenite requires careful treatment. You cannot drop it - this will cause it to crack. Also, you should not store it together with other jewelry - metal and other stones will ruin the polish and leave scratches. Clean it without using abrasives. It is enough to rinse the product in a soapy solution.
If you follow all these rules, the stone can even become a family talisman and, having accumulated the energy of the family, help many of its generations.
Selenite: properties of the stone (physical, chemical)
It turns out that selenite is the result of metamorphosis of salt water of the seas and oceans, that is, it is a chemical sediment formed as a result of prolonged evaporation and drying out of some areas of the sea. This mineral contains calcium silicate.
Its structure is very fragile and can be easily scratched with a fingernail. However, it is quite dense. Selenite has a wonderful shine, sometimes shimmering, sometimes glowing from within. Sometimes it seems that at different times of the day it changes its shade.
In the soil it is located under a thick layer of clay, and to get to it, this layer is first removed, then sedimentary rocks, and only then will it be possible to extract selenite. By the way, besides Russia, deposits of this stone are located in countries such as the USA, France, Australia, Canada, Germany, Egypt, etc.