Selenite
Selenite is the clear, bladed crystal variety of gypsum — one of the most common sulfate minerals. Mexico's Cave of the Crystals (Cueva de los Cristales) holds selenite crystals up to 36 feet long — the largest crystals on Earth. In the US, Oklahoma and Texas have accessible selenite deposits. The "desert rose" variety — rosette-shaped clusters — is popular with collectors and found across the Southwest.
Physical Properties
Chemical Formula
CaSO₄·2H₂O (variety of gypsum)
Hardness (Mohs)
2
Color
Colorless, white, pale yellow, peach
Luster
Pearly to vitreous
Crystal System
Monoclinic
Streak
White
Cleavage
Perfect in one direction (fibrous cleavage)
Specific Gravity
2.31–2.33
🔍 Field Identification Tips
Extremely soft (hardness 2 — fingernail scratches it easily). Perfect cleavage producing flexible, non-elastic sheets. Pearly luster on cleavage faces. Can be split into thin transparent sheets. Distinguished from calcite by flexibility of cleavage sheets and lower hardness.
Varieties & Forms
📍 Where to Find Selenite in the US
Uses & Applications
Decorative carvings, architectural use (historical), drywall (gypsum board), crystal healing community.
💰 Collector Value Guide
Common selenite wands: $2–$20. Desert roses: $5–$50. Michigan "fish-tail" twins: $20–$200. Large display plates: $50–$500.
Find Selenite With Our Tools
Use the We Lick Rocks app to identify specimens, find dig sites, and connect with local rockhounds.