Bracelet made of selenite rondelles, approximately 5-6mm.
Many theories are put forward regarding the origins of selenite. The most common and seemingly most logical one is linked to Greek mythology.
In Greek mythology, the goddess of the moon is named Selene. Selene is the daughter of the Titans Hyperion and Theia and reflects purity and benevolence. These are qualities also associated with the white moon.
Another hypothesis explains that selenite comes from the Greek word "selenitis" which literally translates to moonstone. It is true that the stone has a luster similar to that of the star. Thus, many beliefs attribute lunar powers to this magnificent white stone.
Traces of selenite have been found since antiquity. Pliny the Elder (23 AD to 79 AD), a famous Roman writer and naturalist, author of an encyclopedia entitled Natural History, explains that pure selenite was used in the manufacture of windows as a replacement for glass. These white minerals (selenite, talc, and micas) were grouped under the term lapis specularis, or specular stone.
In the Middle Ages, selenite deposits were discovered and exploited in Germany. They produced crystals so large that they were used to protect miraculous images of the Virgin. These unusually large crystal varieties were named "marienglas," meaning Mary's glass in German.
In Italy, selenite is found in abundance around Bologna. It was widely used as a building material. Indeed, it is found in the construction of the city's first fortifications and in that of the Towers of Bologna. Selenite is widely appreciated for its hardening qualities (hardening of organic matter) and for its more imposing joint grains than those of Tuscan alabaster (a natural white stone highly prized in sculpture and stone carving).
Selenite is a variant of gypsum, a mineral species containing calcium sulfate dihydrate. When it appears in its crystallized form, it has a translucent, even transparent appearance, with iridescent reflections (displaying the colors of the rainbow). It is therefore part of the fibrous gypsums. It is sometimes confused with moonstone, which belongs to the feldspar family.
Be careful with the fragility of selenite: it has a hardness of 2 on the Mohs scale. For comparison, diamond has a hardness of 10 on the same scale. Selenite requires great care in handling. It is essential not to put it in contact with water, as it tends to be soluble.
The main deposits are found in Morocco, Argentina, Brazil, Spain, etc.
In lithotherapy, selenite is a purifying stone for our environment. It helps to dispel negative energies and attract positive ones. This results in establishing inner serenity, conducive to spiritual elevation and meditation. It develops intuition and provides a certain strength.
This mineral helps to bring to the surface blockages and traumas related to the past. It opens the mind to receive energy, fight against one's demons, and overcome one's complexes. It inspires one to move forward and overcome encountered difficulties.
Selenite is an excellent anti-stress stone. It allows one to manage emotions, anxiety, and fears. It promotes openness to others, encourages compassion and empathy. It fosters understanding and good communication between the wearer and their surroundings.
This fabulous stone is known to be an excellent gift for a pregnant woman. Its lunar energy accompanies her throughout her pregnancy, bringing well-being and tranquility.
Psychologically speaking, selenite helps to re-center oneself, to increase one's capacity for concentration, memorization, and imagination. It is perfect for developing creativity and for students during exam periods. Traces of selenite have been found since antiquity. Pliny the Elder (23 AD to 79 AD), a famous Roman writer and naturalist, author of an encyclopedia entitled Natural History, explains that pure selenite was used in the manufacture of windows as a replacement for glass. These white minerals (selenite, talc, and micas) were grouped under the term lapis specularis, or specular stone.