British Selenite Crystal Tidmore Point Dorset UK Natural Gypsum Mineral Specimen Genuine with Certificate of Authenticity

Description

British Selenite Crystal from Tidmore Point, Dorset, UK

This genuine British Selenite crystal specimen from Tidmore Point in Dorset, United Kingdom represents a classic example of naturally formed gypsum crystals from the Jurassic Coast region. Carefully selected for its natural crystal structure and geological significance, this specimen highlights the fibrous to bladed crystal forms commonly associated with selenite varieties of gypsum.

The photographs provided in the listing show the exact specimen you will receive, allowing collectors to closely examine the natural crystal formation, surface texture, and transparency before purchase. Each specimen is naturally unique, shaped by geological conditions present during the mineral’s formation within sedimentary environments.

Mineral Identification and Scientific Classification

Selenite is a transparent to translucent crystalline variety of gypsum, a hydrated calcium sulfate mineral widely found in sedimentary rock formations around the world.

Key mineralogical characteristics include:

• Mineral Species: Gypsum (Selenite variety)

• Chemical Formula: CaSO₄·2H₂O (Calcium Sulfate Dihydrate)

• Mineral Group: Sulfates

• Crystal System: Monoclinic

• Mohs Hardness: 2

• Lustre: Vitreous to silky

• Transparency: Transparent to translucent

• Crystal Habit: Tabular, bladed, or fibrous crystals

The name “selenite” originates from the Greek word selene, meaning moon, referring to the soft luminous appearance often seen in clear gypsum crystals.

Geological Formation of Selenite Crystals

Selenite forms primarily within evaporite sedimentary environments, where mineral-rich waters gradually evaporate and leave behind dissolved salts and minerals.

During this process, calcium and sulfate ions in the water combine to form gypsum crystals. Over time, these crystals grow within sediment layers or cavities within clay, marl, or limestone formations.

In coastal regions such as Dorset, gypsum crystals can form within mudstones and clay-rich sediments, where groundwater circulation and evaporation allow gypsum to crystallise in pockets or fractures within the host rock.

Tidmore Point Geological Setting

Tidmore Point lies along the Jurassic Coast of Dorset, an area internationally recognised for its geological importance and diverse fossil and mineral deposits. The region contains extensive Jurassic sedimentary rock formations composed of clays, shales, and limestones deposited in ancient marine environments millions of years ago.

Within these sedimentary layers, mineral-rich groundwater can lead to the formation of gypsum crystals such as selenite. These crystals may occur as individual blades, clusters, or fibrous masses embedded within the surrounding clay or sediment matrix.

Specimens from Dorset are appreciated by collectors for their locality significance and connection to the geological history of southern England.

Crystal Appearance and Natural Features

Selenite crystals typically display a soft translucent appearance with delicate internal structures. The mineral often forms elongated or bladed crystals that reflect light across their surfaces.

Common visual features of selenite specimens include:

• Translucent crystal blades

• Soft white to colourless appearance

• Fibrous or layered internal structure

• Smooth reflective crystal surfaces

Due to its relatively low hardness, selenite can sometimes display natural cleavage surfaces where the crystal splits along internal planes.

Mineral Collecting and Geological Interest

Selenite is widely collected for its distinctive crystal structure, natural translucency, and geological formation within evaporite deposits. British specimens are particularly valued among collectors due to their connection with historic geological localities along the Jurassic Coast.

Collectors appreciate selenite specimens for:

• Unique crystal growth habits

• Natural translucent appearance

• Geological context within sedimentary rock formations

• Locality importance within British mineral collecting

This specimen is suitable for mineral collections, geological teaching displays, coastal mineral collections, or natural history cabinets.

Cultural and Traditional Associations

Throughout history, translucent minerals such as selenite have appeared in decorative carvings and ornamental objects. In some traditions, selenite crystals are traditionally associated with clarity and symbolic reflection, interpretations derived from historical cultural symbolism rather than scientific properties.

Authenticity and Certificate of Authenticity

This British Selenite crystal from Tidmore Point, Dorset, UK is a genuine natural mineral specimen. Each purchase includes a Certificate of Authenticity lifetime guarantee generic card, confirming the authenticity of the mineral.

The listing photographs clearly show the exact specimen you will receive, ensuring transparency for collectors and buyers.

Size and Specimen Details

Please refer to the listing photographs for full sizing and scale of the specimen. Images display the natural crystal formation, mineral structure, and surface features so buyers can accurately evaluate the piece before purchase.

This British Selenite crystal from Tidmore Point in Dorset represents a classic example of gypsum crystal formation within coastal sedimentary environments and offers a distinctive addition to any mineral collection, geological display, or natural crystal cabinet.