Selenite is a beautiful & versatile mineral that belongs to the gypsum mineral family. It is composed of hydrous calcium sulfate & is known for its transparent to translucent appearance. Selenite crystals exhibit a pearly or glass-like luster & have a unique fibrous or columnar structure. Selenite is commonly found in evaporite deposits, where it forms through the evaporation of ancient saltwater bodies.
The name derives through Middle English selenite, from Latin selenites, ultimately from Greek selēnítēslíthos (σεληνίτηςλίθος, lit. 'moon stone'). It got this name because people believed the mineral waxed & waned with the cycles of the Moon. Selene is also the name of the Greek goddess of the moon.
One unique use of selenite is in the Santa Sabina church in Rome: the large arched windows (built in the 5th century) are made of sheets of selenite, not glass.
Selenite is considered a high-energy crystal that vibrates at a high frequency. Despite being an incredibly soft stone, so soft a fingernail can scratch it, selenite gemstones are believed to be a stone of protection that wards the mind. It is commonly used by crystal practitioners as a way to cleanse the body, mind and spirit of negativity and self-limitation--as well as cleansing other gemstones being used in healing practices.
