Selenite is a very common type of chemical sedimentary rock that is a form of gypsum that occurs in many different parts of the world. This article talks about the meaning, history and uses of the moon stone – Selenite
Meaning of Selenite
Selenite is a type of gypsum crystal that occurs in different parts of the world. When most people hear the word selenite, they think of the pure-white or transparent crystal but selenite also come in other colors such as orange, peach, greyish blue, green, brown, and a golden yellow. The word selenite comes from the Greek word selēnitēs lithos, which translates as “moonstone” ; selēnē which means “moon” and lithos which means “stone.” In Greek mythology, Selene is the goddess of the moon.
Selenite Highlights
- Selenite is a form of gypsum, which is sulfate mineral used in things like fertilizer.
- Selenite is an evaporate rock that forms after a body of water has evaporated, leaving behind the chemicals that were present in the water.
- An example of how an evaporate rock is formed can be seen in the United States with the evaporation of the Great Salt Lake.
- It was believed that selenite waxed and waned with the moon.
- Ancient Mesopotamian cultures used selenite in rituals and to ward off evil spirits.
- Modern crystal experts use it to create grids to protect homes or to create a room for clear thinking and tranquility.
- Selenite can be found in the United States, Mexico, Russia, Poland, Morocco, Greece, England, and France.
- Selenite can come in different colors other than white and its transparent form.
- Selenite is best suited for clearing and activating the Third Eye (6th) and Crown (7th) Chakras.
The Formation and Mining of Selenite
Formation of Selenite
Selenite is actually a very common type of chemical sedimentary rock. There are three different kinds of chemical sedimentary rocks: evaporate rocks, carbonate rocks, and siliceous rocks. Selenite is an evaporate rock, which is formed when bodies of water evaporate. In this process, the chemicals that were evaporated in the water are left behind.
Example of Selenite Formation in the United States
The Great Salt Lake in Utah is all that remains of Lake Bonneville, which was a prehistoric pluvial lake that once covered most of Utah and parts of Nevada and Idaho. The lake has been slowly evaporating, and as this happens, the amount of salt it can hold diminishes. As a result, the salt precipitates out of the lake and is deposited as salt crystals known as halite.
Selenite and Satin Spar
Selenite is a sulfate mineral. It is a form of gypsum, which is mined and applied for various applications such as fertilizer. When gypsum is formed into clear and colorless crystals, it is called as selenite. However, if it forms with a more fibrous texture and is opaque, than it is called as satin spar.
Selenite Throughout History
Mesopotamia
In Mesopotamia, selenite was placed outside the sickrooms to keep evil spirits away. Its use can be found in the Bīt Mēseri, which is an ancient Mesopotamian ritual text written on four tablets in cuneiform. On the second tablet, there is a description of how figurines and paintings should be drawn of the Apkallus—sages. It details how the seven figures would be drawn with gypsum and black paste on the side of the bedroom wall of the sick.
Bīt Mēseri was found in the Library of Ashurbanipal in modern-day northern Iraq near Mosul. It was named after the Ashurbanipal who was the last great king of the Neo-Assyrian Empire.
King of Castile, Alfonso X
In the 13th century, the King of Castile, Alfonso X, also known as Alfonso the Learned, compiled a lapidary that dealt with gemstones and their astrological significance. In this lapidary, it states that Selenite follows the waxing and waning of the moon. Furthermore, it states that if the crystal is hung on a fruit tree, it will facilitate the quick growth and ripening of its produce.
Uses and Benefits of Selenite
Encourage Angelic Energy
Selenite is known as a protective stone, allowing one to defend themselves against the influences that surround them. It can not only eliminate negative energy but facilitate angelic energy at the same time. It is a conduit in which one can connect to their guides and higher self.
Clarity of Thought
Much like how the ancient Mesopotamians used it to ward off evil spirits, today, modern crystal experts use it in a similar fashion to defend one’s home. You can create a grid with selenite to protect your home or place it in the different corners of any room to create a space that is well protected and promotes clarity. When one finds themselves muddled with confusion, selenite helps a person clear the muddy waters of their thoughts to conquer uncertainty.
Benefits of Selenite
The crystal also has certain health properties that can be beneficial. Selenite is often associated with the skeletal system, help with as arthritis, and can help support a treatment for cancer. It can also be used to release any clogging in your glans to help you with more energy.
Activating the 6th and 7th Chakras
The main chakra that selenite can clear and activate is the Third Eye (6th) Chakra. This is the center of our focus and it is how we are able to part the waters of confusion to achieve clarity. Once selenite has cleared the 6th Chakra, it can be used on the Crown (7th) Chakra. By clearing the Third Eye Chakra first, you will notice the flow of energy will be less strangled and will enable you to connect more with the Angelic realm.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for entertainment and reference purposes only. It is based on centuries of folklore, most of which came about before the age of modern medicine. It is not meant as actual medical information. For advice about any of the illnesses listed, please visit a qualified physician.
