Natural Snow Gypsum Crystal – Satin Spar Variety – Genuine White Gypsum Mineral with Certificate of Authenticity

Description

Natural Snow Gypsum – Satin Spar Variety – Genuine Mineral Specimen

This listing is for a beautifully preserved specimen of Snow Gypsum, also known as Satin Spar Selenite, a fibrous variety of gypsum known for its soft, silky texture and snow-white appearance. These crystals are formed under specific evaporitic geological conditions, resulting in a delicate, fibrous habit that glimmers in the light.

• All of our Crystals are 100% Genuine Specimens & come with a Certificate of Authenticity.
• Scale cube = 1cm. Please refer to the photos for full sizing.
• The crystal shown is the actual specimen you will receive—carefully chosen for quality and aesthetic appeal.

Mineralogical Information:

• Mineral Name: Gypsum (Variety: Snow Gypsum / Satin Spar)
• Chemical Formula: CaSO₄·2H₂O (Calcium Sulfate Dihydrate)
• Crystal System: Monoclinic
• Colour: Snow white to silky white
• Transparency: Translucent to opaque
• Hardness: 2 on Mohs scale (very soft—can be scratched with a fingernail)
• Lustre: Silky to pearly
• Fracture/Cleavage: Perfect in one direction (basal), giving the fibrous texture

Geological & Morphological Details:

• Morphology Features:
• Characteristic fibrous parallel crystals
• Radiating crystal bundles with satin-like surface sheen
• Often forms in layers or veins within evaporite formations
• Depositional Environment:
• Evaporitic sedimentary environments
• Forms through the precipitation of minerals from saline waters in drying lakes, lagoons, and inland seas
• Geological Stage:
• Commonly found in sedimentary deposits from the Permian period onward, though exact stage may vary
• Notable Formation Zones (if applicable):
• Evaporite basins such as:
• Naica, Mexico
• Sicily, Italy
• Oklahoma, USA
• Morocco
• Biozone: Not applicable (mineral, not a fossil)

Classification:

• Mineral Class: Sulfate minerals (with water)
• Order: Sulfates with H₂O
• Family: Gypsum group
• Super Family: N/A
• Identification: Gypsum has been known since antiquity, with formal mineralogical study expanding in the 18th–19th centuries

Usage & Care:

• Ideal for mineral collectors, educators, crystal healing, and decorative displays
• Due to its softness and water solubility, avoid contact with water and store in a dry environment
• Clean gently with a soft dry cloth only

Summary:

This Snow Gypsum (Satin Spar) crystal is a standout addition to any mineral collection, both for its unique fibrous texture and the way it diffuses light through its silky strands. Whether you’re a collector, a metaphysical enthusiast, or a geology educator, this authentic specimen offers exceptional visual appeal and geological interest.