OPTICAL SELENITE

Selenite is a glossy, transparent variety of the mineral gypsum; whereas, Optical Selenite, also known as TV Stone, displays a fascinating fiber-optic effect when placed over an image or text. The fiber-optic effect is the result of the polarization of light into slow- and fast-moving rays within each fiber, with the internal reflection of the slow ray, and the refraction rate of the faster ray into the slow ray interacting within an adjacent fiber. This is what allows the image or text to be brought to the surface of the crystal. To simplify this concept, imagine a fiber-optic cable (HDMI) transporting light from one end of the wire to the other, with light traveling through and across the medium at an uninterrupted rate of speed.

SELENITE

Selenite, satin spar, desert rose, and gypsum flower are all crystal habit variations of the mineral gypsum, also known as calcium sulfate dihydrate, or CaSO4-2H2O. It is commonly found at many locations worldwide, including Morocco, Australia, Madagascar, Brazil, Mexico, and the United States. Although the name may be suggestive, selenite actually contains no significant amounts of selenium. Instead, it is named for its lustrous and pearly white appearance, and is derived from the word “Selene”, which is known as the Greek goddess of the moon. Two distinguishing characteristics of crystalline gypsum, or selenite, is its softness of just 2 on the Mohs Scale, and its three unequal cleavages. Selenite is also water-soluble, and is best kept without prolonged exposure to water and high humidity.

GYPSUM HISTORY AND USES

Historically, the mineral gypsum has been widely used across several millennia, influencing everything from building construction and art to farming and agriculture. The earliest known uses of the mineral date all the way back to 7000BC, within the historically significant rise of Mesopotamian villages, where gypsum powder was first discovered to be used as a flame retardant and abrasive within primitive building materials. Later, during the construction of the Great Pyramids of Ancient Egypt, gypsum was widely used as a building stone and component within plaster, where it was used to smooth the stone for finishing techniques. Later yet, the Greek and Roman empires were known to have extensively used the mineral, called “gypsos”, in their construction and decorative plasterwork. And even later yet, during the rise of the Renaissance Era, gypsum saw a renewed and valuable interest in its decorative potential within the combination of Renaissance art and architecture.

To this day, gypsum boasts a wide range of mechanical and industrial applications; including its most notable uses within the production and use of building materials, such as drywall, cement, and plaster. Additionally, it is widely used as a soil amendment and fertilizer for plant nutrition within many agricultural settings. It can also help by remediating high sodium levels within irrigation water, allowing for the improvement of soil structure and water retention. Furthermore, sodium selenite has long been used within the manufacture of clear and transparent glass, where it neutralizes the green tint that occurs from iron impurities within the production. Sodium selenite is also used as a dietary supplement in the animal feed industry, as well as a medium and abrasive for porcelain artwork and decoration. Most interestingly, it has also been explored for its potential impacts in cancer treatment research. The legacy of gypsum use, from ancient civilizations to modern construction, demonstrates its enduring value as a highly versatile and adaptable material.

SELENITE METAPHYSICS

Metaphysically, Selenite is considered a stone of cleanliness, clarity, and the ability to recharge. Known as a stone that contributes positive energy influx across all chakras, it is a powerful tool for cleansing the mind and personal space of negative, stagnant, or blocked energy. Selenite is also said to produce a peaceful and calming environment from which to enjoy personal space that is free from conformity. Additionally, selenite is considered a powerful stabilizer of unpredictable and erratic behavior, and can be used to create happy, mood-safe and regulated environments of peace and Love. Furthermore, it is said that having selenite around the house can help to provide effective energies for the recharging and cleansing of other crystals, gems, and rocks. Physically, selenite is considered a terrific stone for proper spinal alignment and core muscle strength. It is also said that selenite can aid new or expectant mothers with milk production and feeding.