British selenite crystal, jurassic coast, dorset, uk – genuine selenite crystal from the jurassic coast, dorset, uk

Authentic British Selenite Crystal – Jebel Saghro, Morocco

This listing features a genuine British Selenite crystal mineral specimen sourced from the renowned Jebel Saghro region of Morocco, an area internationally recognised for producing exceptionally well-formed gypsum crystals. This is a carefully chosen natural specimen, selected for clarity, form, and overall visual appeal. The photographs show the exact crystal you will receive, and full sizing details are provided within the listing images. As with all our specimens, this crystal is 100% genuine and supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity.

Mineral Overview – Selenite (Gypsum Variety)

Selenite is a crystalline variety of gypsum (calcium sulphate dihydrate), valued for its translucent appearance, silky lustre, and distinctive crystal habits. It crystallises in the monoclinic crystal system and commonly forms elongated blades, tabular crystals, or rosette-like aggregates. The name “selenite” is derived from the Greek selēnē, meaning moon, reflecting its soft, glowing appearance when light passes through the crystal.

British selenite is known for its pale, clean aesthetic, and specimens from Jebel Saghro often exhibit excellent transparency and sharp crystal edges, making them highly desirable for collectors.

Crystal Characteristics and Visual Features

This selenite specimen displays classic features associated with high-quality gypsum crystals:

• Colour: Colourless to milky white with subtle internal glow

• Transparency: Translucent, allowing light to pass through the crystal

• Lustre: Satin to vitreous, producing a soft reflective sheen

• Crystal Habit: Naturally formed blade or plate-like structure

• Surface Texture: Smooth cleavage planes with natural growth lines

Selenite is prized for its delicate beauty and elegant simplicity, with each specimen exhibiting unique internal structures formed during crystal growth.

Geological Formation – Jebel Saghro Region

The Jebel Saghro massif lies within southeastern Morocco and is known for its complex geological history involving sedimentary, volcanic, and hydrothermal processes. Selenite crystals from this region typically form in evaporitic environments, where calcium- and sulphate-rich waters slowly evaporate, allowing gypsum crystals to precipitate and grow.

These conditions favour the development of well-formed, transparent crystals with minimal inclusions. The arid climate and stable geological conditions of the region help preserve crystal integrity, resulting in specimens of excellent quality.

Collecting and Display Value

Selenite crystals are popular among mineral collectors, educators, and display-focused buyers due to their natural elegance and geological significance. This specimen is ideal for:

• Mineral and crystal collections

• Display cabinets and natural history exhibits

• Educational study of evaporite minerals

• Gifts for geology and crystal enthusiasts

While selenite is relatively soft compared to many minerals, proper handling and display will ensure long-term preservation.

Your Genuine Mineral Specimen

• Mineral: Selenite (Gypsum)

• Crystal System: Monoclinic

• Locality: Jebel Saghro, Morocco

• Authenticity: 100% genuine specimen

• Treatment: None – completely natural

• Condition: Carefully selected for clarity and form

• Sizing: Full measurements shown in listing photographs

• Exact Specimen Shown: You will receive the crystal pictured

• Certificate: Supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity

This British selenite crystal from Jebel Saghro offers a refined balance of geological authenticity and visual beauty. Its translucent form, classic crystal habit, and genuine provenance make it a timeless addition to any mineral or crystal collection.