*** All information about the metaphysical properties of the listings on this site is for reference only and is to be understood in this context. It is based on research of opinions and beliefs from different cultures today and throughout history and my own personal beliefs.The information is not to be taken as a replacement for a medical examination, diagnosis, or treatment. For medical advice, please consult a healthcare professional. ***

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This Gypsum (Selenite) specimen weighs 66g and measures 13cm x 4cm and was collected in the 1960’s not from one of the main collecting areas.

This specimen displays an unusual complex growth habit making it particularly aesthetically pleasing. Obviously during the formation of this specimen the surroundings dramatically altered resulting in a complete direction change of the growth. The main type of Gypsum found at Lake Gilles is of the Selenite transparent variety characterised by "fishtail" twin crystals, often containing sand inclusions that create varied and aesthetically interesting specimens.

There are two official Gypsum mines on the Lake Gilles complex, although Gypsum can be found throughout the entire Lake area.

Though sometimes grouped together as "Selenite", the four crystalline varieties of gypsum have differences. General identifying descriptions of the related crystalline varieties are:

Selenite - most often transparent and colorless: it is named after Greek σεληνη "the moon". if selenite crystals show translucency, opacity, and/or colour, it is caused by the presence of other minerals, sometimes in druse, (druse is the crust of tiny, minute, or micro crystals that form or fuse either within or upon the surface of a rock vug, geode, or another crystal). Selenite also has many different formation types which can get confusing for many people as specimens can appear very different even from similar locations.

Satin Spar - most often silky, fibrous, and translucent (pearly, milky); can exhibit some coloration. The satin spar name can also be applied to fibrous calcite (a related calcium mineral) – Calcite is a harder mineral – and feels greasier, waxier, or oilier to the touch.

Desert Rose - rosette shaped gypsum with outer druse of sand or with sand throughout – most often sand coloured (in all the colours that sand can exhibit)\nthe desert rose name can also be applied to barite desert roses (another related sulphate mineral) – barite is a harder mineral with higher density.

Gypsum Flower - rosette shaped gypsum with spreading fibres – can include outer druse. The difference between desert roses and gypsum flowers is that desert roses look like roses, whereas gypsum flowers form a myriad of shapes.

Gypsum has natural thermal insulating properties, all varieties feel warm to the touch.