Gypsum is commonly used as a decorative stone. It is commonly stained in stronger colors. Selenite is colorless, occasionally cut for collectors, but very soft. Satin spar is a fibrous variety, polished or is cut en cabochon. Rose shapes called ‘desert rose’ also occur. The rough gypsum stone has a parallel fibrous structure.
When cut en cabochon, some a gypsum gemstone may display a cat’s eye effect.
Occurrence
Gypsum is usually found in England and Italy (alabaster); Chile, the USA, Mexico, and Italy (selenite crystal).
Gypsum Properties
- Specific Gravity: 2.32
- Refractive Index: 1.52-1.53
- Birefringence (DR): 0.010
- Luster: Silky to vitreous
- Crystal Structure: Monoclinic
- Composition: Hydrated calcium sulfate
- Hardness: 2
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