What is Selenite?

Selenite is a crystalized form of the mineral Gypsum which is a translucent, multifaceted stone. This crystal is formed from evaporation of sulfate and calcium rich saltwater. If reintroduced to water and sand in some cases, different forms arise such as the Satin Spar with silky looking surfaces, the Gypsum Flower which looks like frozen water and the unique Desert Rose that resembles roses in bloom.

Selenite is closely associated to the moon as the name of the stone comes from the Greek word which means “moonstone”. The name of this pale crystal is also a fitting tribute for the Greek goddess of the moon called “Selene”.

Selenite is a calcium sulfate dihydrate and a monoclinic crystal. It’s hardness on the Mohs scale is 2 which makes it a really soft mineral that can be scratched with a fingernail. Selenite is also known to be easily fusible with the loss of water and can be diluted in hydrochloric acid.

What does selenite look like?

Selenite is a milky white or colorless crystal with a pearly sheen and beautiful striations. This crystal is not entirely transparent but can be close to being so; the transparency may look foggy or milky. Selenite is a 2 on the Mohs Hardness Scale, making it one of the softest minerals and can be scratched with your fingernail. This crystal is often sold in its raw tubular form of sticks and towers.

There is some super clear selenite from locations like Mexico and Greece, but for the most part, selenite is a start white color.  There is also Orange Selenite that comes out of Morocco (where the bulk of the white is from too) that polishes up similarly to the white.

There is also a unique selenite stone, that has been nicknamed 'TV Stone' (although the TRUE 'TV Stone' is Ulexite), that allows you to read through the selenite in a fun and unique way.

Where does selenite come from?

Selenite is found all over the world from places like the United States and Argentina to Greece, Japan, Australia and many more. The most common places though are the 1000 feet deep caves in Mexico, Madagascar and Morocco.

Selenite Meaning

The name Selenite comes from the Greek word for moon and means “moon glow”; the crystal was named after the moon’s glow because of its pearly white appearance.   Interestingly, it is one of the few crystals that does not need to be cleansed, and can actually cleanse other crystals, similar to how the moon cleanses crystals.  This is why you will often find selenite cleansing plates in a variety of shapes and sizes on the market to use to cleanse crystals and crystal jewelry.

What does selenite do?

Selenite carries energies that are gentle yet very healing. They are capable of bringing you abundance of light and calm. So, if you feel any type of heaviness in your life right now you should consider trying this crystal! It’s also known as the stone of the higher chakras such as the crown and the third eye chakra. It can work greatly in releasing any blockages in these chakras as it is a shifter of stagnant energy. This will lead you to increased mental clarity and divine inspiration.

Selenite can be used in several ways. This magnificent crystal is very useful for cleansing and charging other crystals because it operates with such high frequencies. Another way to try it out is by meditating while holding it. This is especially useful if you struggle with anxious thoughts and need some uplifting encouragement! You can also place it on the crown or third eye chakra as a way to cleanse and restore them. It’s also recommended to put it under a pillow or near your bed if you are struggling to get a good night’s rest. Placing it in your home is another great idea as it can bring harmony and clear away frustration and fatigue from your everyday life. They’re the ideal gift for the zodiac sign of Taurus as well, as they balance them out perfectly!

More about Selenite

Selenite is a mineral that is a crystallized form of gypsum and is often incorrectly referred to as being the same crystal because of their identical chemical compounds but different crystalline structure. Selenite is formed in an interesting way. When saltwater accumulates in the same spot and evaporates repeatedly over millions of years, salt is left behind building selenite formations. Because selenite is mainly salt, it is water-soluble and you should avoid leaving it in water or it may dissolve.

Chakra: Crown

Selenite Localities: Greece, Poland, Argentina, Morocco, Mexico, Russia, Japan, Australia, Brazil, and the United States

Birthstone: Selenite is not a birthstone but is often associated with Cancers.