Gemstone and Mineral Assortment Insight: Decoding Selenite
In the realm of geology, selenite stands out as a captivating mineral with a rich history that spans across centuries. This colorless variety of gypsum, not containing selenium as its name might suggest, has intrigued scientists, artists, and historians alike.
Johann Gottschalk Wallerius, a Swedish chemist and mineralogist, first named selenite in his 1747 book, "Mineralogia, eller Mineralriket." Wallerius, often hailed as one of the founders of modern mineralogy, made significant contributions to the field with his systematic approach to the study of minerals.
Selenite was used extensively in Roman antiquity, serving as window panes in Spain, Cyprus, Cappadocia, and Sicily. Before the invention of glass panes, transparent selenite was a popular choice for this purpose. In the Middle Ages, selenite was discovered in abundance in Germany, particularly in the region of Gotha, where it was used as a substitute for glass to protect pictures of the Virgin Mary. This led to its nickname, Marienglas, or 'Mary's glass.'
The use of selenite extended beyond practical applications, as it was also admired for its aesthetic qualities. Plinius the Elder, a renowned Roman naturalist, referred to selenite as specularis lapis, or 'mirror-like stone,' due to its brilliant and reflective surface.
In the Cave of Crystals in Naica, Mexico, the world's largest known crystals of selenite can be found. These crystals, measuring up to 1.2m in diameter and 15m in length, were formed under perfect conditions by hydrothermal fluids from a magma chamber situated below.
Despite its beauty, selenite is not suitable for faceting, but it can be carved as cabochons or beads. Its crystals often crystallize in the monoclinic system, appearing as tabular crystals with a rhombus shape. Selenite has one excellent cleavage direction and two distinct cleavage directions, making it a brittle stone. Lightly colored selenite can display pale pastel tints due to inclusions or impurities.
Today, selenite continues to captivate the imagination, with its unique properties and historical significance making it a fascinating subject for study and appreciation. From its use in ancient Rome to its inclusion in the Gem-A Gemstone & Mineral Collection, selenite's journey is a testament to the enduring allure of minerals in our world.
- At gemmology courses and workshops, selenite crystals are often examined in detail, providing a deeper understanding of their unique properties and historical significance.
- In the realm of science, particularly health-and-wellness and wellness publications, selenite is sometimes discussed for its purported healing properties and benefits, despite a lack of concrete scientific evidence.
- Since selenite crystals candisplay beautiful transparency and geometric shapes, they have inspired numerous artworks and sculptures, showcased in various museums and art galleries worldwide.
