Description
Polished Selenite TV Block – Natural Optical Gypsum Crystal
This genuine polished Selenite TV Block is a striking example of fibrous gypsum crystal, expertly shaped and polished to highlight its natural optical properties. Often known for its distinctive light-transmitting effect, this variety of selenite—commonly referred to as satin spar—creates a fascinating visual display when placed over text or images.
The photograph shows the exact specimen you will receive. Each piece is carefully chosen for clarity, fibre alignment, and overall presentation quality. Full sizing details can be confirmed in the listing photographs.
This crystal is a genuine specimen and includes a Certificate of Authenticity lifetime guarantee generic card.
Mineral Classification & Crystal Structure
Selenite is a crystalline variety of the mineral gypsum, with the chemical formula:
CaSO4·2H2O (Calcium Sulfate Dihydrate)
It belongs to the sulfate mineral group and crystallises in the monoclinic crystal system. The satin spar variety used for TV blocks forms in dense, parallel fibrous aggregates. These aligned fibres are responsible for the unique optical phenomenon that gives the “TV Block” its name.
While true selenite can form in large, transparent prismatic crystals, satin spar develops as silky, fibrous masses with a pearly to silky lustre. The internal fibrous structure acts similarly to bundled optical fibres, transmitting light from one surface to the other.
Optical Properties – Natural Light Transmission
One of the defining features of a Selenite TV Block is its natural ability to transmit images and light through the stone. When placed on top of printed text, the image appears projected to the top surface. This occurs due to the tightly packed, parallel crystal fibres that channel light in a straight path.
The polished surfaces enhance this optical clarity, making the block ideal for:
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Mineral displays
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Educational demonstrations
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Geological teaching aids
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Desk or office curiosities
Its luminous white appearance and soft internal glow give it a clean, elegant aesthetic suitable for both modern and traditional interiors.
Geological Formation
Gypsum forms in evaporite environments where mineral-rich waters evaporate in restricted basins such as salt flats, lagoons, and inland seas. As water levels decrease, dissolved calcium and sulfate ions combine and crystallise into gypsum deposits.
Over time, pressure and stable growth conditions allow fibrous satin spar varieties to develop. These deposits are commonly associated with halite, anhydrite, calcite, and other evaporitic minerals.
Selenite is relatively soft, ranking 2 on the Mohs hardness scale. This softness allows it to be shaped and polished into smooth blocks while still retaining its natural fibrous texture internally.
Appearance & Display Qualities
This polished Selenite TV Block features:
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Bright white to translucent colour
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Silky internal fibre structure
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Smooth, polished flat faces
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Natural light transmission effect
Subtle internal striations and linear banding may be visible, reflecting the fibrous crystal growth pattern. The polished finish enhances both the optical properties and the mineral’s natural lustre.
Selenite is traditionally associated in spiritual practices with clarity and purification; however, this listing focuses on its geological characteristics and visual appeal as a natural mineral specimen.
Authenticity & Selection
This is a genuine Selenite (gypsum) crystal specimen. The image shown is of the exact piece you will receive, carefully selected for its structure and optical quality.
Your purchase includes a Certificate of Authenticity lifetime guarantee generic card. Please refer to the photographs for full sizing and scale.
A beautifully polished example of fibrous gypsum with natural optical properties, this Selenite TV Block is a distinctive addition to any mineral collection or display setting.
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