Selenite and Satin Spar

Selenite and Satin Spar are both beautiful varieties of Gypsum, a naturally occurring sulphate mineral, but they have quite different appearances and crystal structures.

Satin Spar has a distinctive fibrous structure that creates its familiar silky, luminous appearance. When polished, the fine parallel fibres beautifully reflect the light, producing the soft glowing effect Satin Spar is known for.

True Selenite is generally much clearer and more transparent or translucent, often forming in well-defined natural crystals and sheets. My collection includes some particularly beautiful high-quality Window Selenite, specially selected for its exceptional clarity and glass-like appearance. These pieces allow light to pass through them beautifully and can have an almost ice-like quality, with natural internal layers, veils and formations visible within the crystal.

Good-quality clear Window Selenite is very different in appearance from the more commonly available white Satin Spar, making these pieces especially beautiful for collectors and natural crystal displays.

Both are delicate minerals and should be handled with care and kept away from water to help preserve their natural beauty.