Selenite

Origin and characteristics

Selenite is geologically simple gypsum (calcium sulphate dihydrate, CaSO₄·2H₂O) crystallised in transparent or translucent crystals. The major modern deposits are in Mexico (the famous "Cave of the Crystals" of Naica, Chihuahua, contains gigantic selenite crystals up to 11 meters long and 50 tons of weight — one of the most spectacular natural phenomena of the planet, discovered in 2000), Morocco, Madagascar, USA. Its mineral name comes from the Greek selēnē ("moon") — referring to its pearly luminous shine reminiscent of moonlight.

Important characteristic: selenite is water-soluble. NEVER cleanse selenite with water or salt water — it would dissolve gradually. This is the only major mineral with this peculiarity in current crystal therapy. Cleanse it with smoke (palo santo, sage), full moon, sun (briefly only), or simply do not cleanse it (one of its unique characteristics in crystal therapy is its supposed self-cleansing capacity — see below).

Esoteric properties

In modern crystal therapy, selenite is considered: 1) Stone of self-cleansing par excellence — DOES NOT absorb negative energies; transmutes them. Therefore does not need to be cleansed (unlike most stones that need periodic cleansing). 2) Cleanser of OTHER stones — placing other stones on selenite (especially long bars or flat plates of selenite) periodically cleanses them automatically. Therefore essential element of any serious crystal collection: place your gemstones on selenite when not in use to keep them energetically clean.

3) High vibration energetic elevator — connects with the highest spiritual planes, the angelic realm, the higher Self. Recommended use: place a piece of selenite on the working/sleeping/meditation altar; raises the vibrational frequency of the entire space. 4) Spiritual clarity — direct work on the crown chakra and the third eye; opens to higher spiritual perceptions. 5) Powerful spiritual protection — placed on doors and windows, generates an energetic shield of high vibration. 6) Subtle communication with spiritual guides — used in channelling and meditation work for high contact.

Common forms: raw selenite (lumpy, with characteristic fibrous striations), selenite bar (polished cylindrical, common altar tool), selenite plate (flat, perfect to place other stones for cleansing), selenite tower (vertical structure, energetic anchor of spaces), "selenite rose" (specific natural variety with petal-shaped crystals — very beautiful).

How to use it

1) Place a long bar or flat plate of selenite as base of your crystals altar — they will be automatically cleansed by mere contact. 2) Tower or piece on the bedside table for restorative high-vibration sleep. 3) Pieces near front doors and windows for high-frequency energetic protection. 4) Hold during meditation for spiritual elevation and high subtle perception. 5) Pass over the body in small bar (without touching, a few centimetres of distance) as personal energetic cleansing. 6) DO NOT immerse in water (dissolves). 7) Avoid exposing to humid environments (selenite gradually deteriorates in chronic humidity). 8) Combine with other stones as energetic foundation that will keep them cleansed.