Selenite is a crystal prized for its transparent, milky white appearance and soft, ethereal glow, making it popular for home decoration and spiritual practices. The name is derived from the Greek word for “moon,” referencing its gentle, moon-like luminescence. Despite its captivating beauty, selenite is a unique and fragile mineral. Selenite is highly water-sensitive, and contact with liquids should be avoided to prevent irreversible damage.
Selenite’s Composition and Water Sensitivity
The delicate nature of selenite is rooted in its fundamental chemical makeup, classifying it as a form of the mineral gypsum. Its chemical designation is calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4ยท2H2O). The term “dihydrate” indicates that water molecules are an integral part of its crystalline structure, differentiating it from water-free minerals.
The presence of water molecules within the crystal lattice makes it soft and soluble. The mineral ranks a low 2 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making it susceptible to scratching. When selenite is exposed to liquid water, the surrounding water molecules begin to break down the calcium sulfate structure, initiating dissolution.
Because it is a hydrous mineral, water exposure does not just affect the surface; it causes the mineral to chemically revert to a liquid state over time. Running water or prolonged soaking can dissolve the crystal structure itself, releasing the calcium sulfate back into the water. This solubility makes selenite fundamentally incompatible with any form of wet cleaning or storage in humid conditions.
Damage Caused by Liquid Exposure
When selenite is exposed to water, the consequences are visible and permanent. Even a brief rinse or splash can cause the polished surface to lose its vitreous luster, leaving it cloudy or chalky. The water interacts with the crystal structure, causing the smooth, transparent surface to become dull.
Prolonged exposure, such as soaking a piece, will lead to surface erosion, pitting, and the rounding of sharp edges. The crystal structure can begin to break down, resulting in a rough, powdery texture. For fibrous varieties of selenite, like satin spar, water can seep into the natural layers and cause the crystal to flake or separate, significantly weakening its structural integrity.
The resulting damage is not reversible, as the dissolution process changes the mineral’s composition at a molecular level. Placing selenite in high-humidity areas, such as a bathroom, can also lead to gradual degradation over time, even without direct liquid contact. The water vapor is enough to slowly cause surface dulling and a reduction in the crystal’s clarity.
Safe Handling and Cleaning Practices
Since water is corrosive to selenite, handling and cleaning practices must keep the mineral completely dry. Routine maintenance involves using a soft, dry cloth, such as a microfiber towel, to gently wipe away dust. A soft, clean brush can also be used to remove particles from crevices or etched areas.
For those who use selenite for energy work and wish to cleanse it, non-physical methods must substitute for water-based rituals. Cleansing can be achieved by placing the selenite piece under the light of the full moon overnight, or by using sound vibrations from a singing bowl. Passing the crystal through the smoke produced by burning sage or palo santo is another dry alternative for energetic clearing.
Proper storage is important, and selenite should be kept in a dry environment, away from potential liquid sources. Avoid displaying pieces near sinks, humidifiers, or open windows where they might be exposed to rain or condensation. Consistent dry handling and storage will ensure the preservation of the selenite’s appearance and delicate structure.