Egyptian Alabaster Grinder Carved Calcite Stone Ancient Style Specimen Natural Banded Stone with Premium Hand Signed COA

Egyptian Alabaster Grinder – Carved Calcite Stone Specimen

This Egyptian Alabaster Grinder is a beautifully carved stone piece made from natural Egyptian alabaster, a fine-grained variety of banded calcite. Known for its warm translucent tones and soft, smooth texture, Egyptian alabaster has been prized since antiquity for decorative objects, vessels, and ceremonial items. This piece reflects that long geological and cultural heritage.

You will receive a specimen of the type shown in the photographs, carefully selected for colour, banding, and craftsmanship. Full sizing is available in the listing photos. This is a genuine stone specimen and includes a fully hand-signed Premium Certificate of Authenticity.

What Is Egyptian Alabaster?

Egyptian alabaster is primarily composed of calcite (calcium carbonate, CaCO₃), a mineral belonging to the trigonal crystal system. Unlike gypsum alabaster found in some regions, Egyptian alabaster is calcitic in composition and is sometimes referred to as “onyx marble” in the stone trade.

This material forms in sedimentary and hydrothermal environments where calcium-rich waters precipitate calcite in layered deposits. Over time, subtle variations in mineral impurities produce the characteristic banding patterns seen in alabaster.

The fine-grained crystalline structure allows for detailed carving and polishing, giving the stone its distinctive silky finish and soft translucency.

Geological Formation & Egyptian Origin

Egyptian alabaster is historically sourced from quarries in regions such as Hatnub and other Eastern Desert localities. These deposits formed when mineral-rich waters percolated through limestone formations, depositing successive layers of calcite in cavities and fissures.

The banded appearance reflects rhythmic precipitation of calcium carbonate, influenced by changing environmental conditions such as temperature, mineral concentration, and water chemistry.

Because calcite is relatively soft (Mohs hardness 3), it can be shaped and polished with precision, which is why it has been widely used in Egyptian stone carving for thousands of years.

Appearance, Colour & Natural Features

Egyptian alabaster typically displays:

• Cream, honey, and soft amber tones
• Subtle white or beige banding
• Smooth, satin-like polished surfaces
• Gentle translucency when held to light

The layered calcite structure gives each piece a unique pattern, ensuring no two grinders are identical. Minor natural inclusions or tonal variations are part of the stone’s geological origin and add to its authenticity.

Historical & Decorative Appeal

Alabaster objects have been discovered in ancient Egyptian archaeological sites, where they were crafted into jars, bowls, and ritual items. The stone’s luminous quality made it especially desirable for decorative and ceremonial use.

This carved grinder reflects that tradition of working with calcitic stone, combining geological heritage with artisan craftsmanship. As a decorative stone object, it serves as a striking display piece in:

• Natural stone collections
• Interior décor settings
• Cultural and historical displays
• Collector showcases

Its banded calcite composition and Egyptian origin make it both geologically and historically interesting.

Authenticity & Presentation

• Genuine Egyptian Alabaster (Calcite CaCO₃) specimen
• Trigonal crystal system (calcite component)
• Natural banded stone formation
• Carved and polished decorative grinder form
• Example shown – you will receive a carefully selected specimen
• Includes fully hand-signed Premium Certificate of Authenticity
• Full sizing available in listing photographs

A carefully selected Egyptian alabaster grinder showcasing natural calcite banding, historic stoneworking tradition, and timeless collector appeal.