Natural Snow Gypsum Mineral Specimen – White Satin Selenite Variety – Genuine Crystal with Certificate

Description

Natural Snow Gypsum Crystal – Genuine Mineral Specimen

This listing features a high-quality Snow Gypsum specimen, a white fibrous variety of gypsum also known as Satin Spar Selenite. Its snow-like appearance and delicate texture make it a highly desirable item for both crystal collectors and geology enthusiasts.

• All of our Crystals are 100% Genuine Specimens and come with a Certificate of Authenticity.
• Scale cube = 1cm. Please refer to the listing photo for full sizing.
• The specimen shown is the actual piece you will receive – carefully selected for its natural beauty and preservation.

Mineral Information:

• Name: Gypsum (variety: Snow Gypsum / Satin Spar Selenite)
• Chemical Formula: CaSO₄·2H₂O (Calcium sulfate dihydrate)
• Crystal System: Monoclinic
• Colour: Snow white, fibrous or silky appearance
• Lustre: Silky to pearly
• Transparency: Translucent to opaque
• Hardness: 2 on Mohs scale (can be scratched with a fingernail)
• Cleavage: Perfect in one direction
• Morphology Features:
• Fine fibrous structure often aligned in parallel
• Slightly chatoyant or satin-like shine
• Sometimes forms radiating or columnar aggregates

Geological & Environmental Context:

• Depositional Environment:
• Forms in evaporitic sedimentary settings, such as saline lakes and arid seabeds
• Commonly found in association with halite and anhydrite
• Geological Stage: Found from Permian to present-day Holocene sediments
• Notable Locations: Common in the USA (notably Oklahoma and Utah), Mexico, Morocco, and parts of Europe

Scientific Classification:

• Mineral Class: Sulfates
• Group: Gypsum group
• Family: Gypsum
• Order: Sulfates without additional anions, with H₂O
• Super Family: N/A (typically not classified at this level in standard mineralogy)
• Formally Identified By: Described in antiquity; named from the Greek “gypsos” (meaning “chalk”) and scientifically characterised in the 18th century

Uses & Appeal:

• Ideal for crystal healing and metaphysical practices
• Aids in emotional clarity, calm, and energetic cleansing
• Decorative use due to its shimmering, snowy appearance
• Educational tool in geology and mineralogy collections

Important Notes:

• Handle with care – Gypsum is a soft mineral and sensitive to water
• Do not wash under running water; instead, gently wipe with a dry cloth

Perfect For:

• Crystal and mineral collectors
• Home décor and natural display pieces
• Educational and teaching tools
• Metaphysical and healing practices
• Thoughtful natural gifts