Selenite

Also known as the goddess stone, selenite was named after the Greek Goddess of the Moon, Selene. The name selenite comes directly from the Greek word for moonstone. The typical selenite crystal is usually named as the selenite rod or the satinspar towers, however there are other versions that look drastically different than the iconic spooly selenite rod. There are the gypsum flowers and the desert rose, which are beautiful examples of rocks mimicking the beauty of plants. 

Selenite can be compared to that of a piece of sawed wood. It has a smooth grainy texture when you trace your fingers along the grain. However, when you try to against the grain, you are guaranteed to walk away with a bunch of micro splinters. However, the small threads of selenite are far more brittle than those of wood, so taking them out are truly a pain. But also similar to wood, selenite has this very chalky powder like film on the top layer, almost like a layer of saw dust. And this is a common theme among all of the selenites.

Besides the regular selenite rods, next most well known would be Satin Spar towers. These towers have this iridescent sheen to them that almost mimic those of a cats eye. Next would be the beautiful desert rose variation which is a brownish cluster with many groves which end with a white powdered highlight. Finally would be the gypsum flowers which are spindle rods of crystal that grow almost like vines.

Selenite variations are often seen adorning alters as they are very important for protection. Priests would often use crushed up selenite on the homes of the ill to ward off evil spirits. The crystal promotes positive energy and ensures calm and peaceful vibrations. Similar to sage and smudge sticks, selenite is used for cleansing spaces. It is also known to clear blockages. So if life seems to be in a stand still, using selenite to cleanse one’s space and one self is a great way to remove blockages and make way for new opportunities.

 Along with those purposes, selenite is known as the crystal charger. When you bring home a new crystal it is important to cleanse the crystal and put in your positive intentions and energies into it. Some ways that this is done is sun/moon bathing the crystals, letting them sit in a salt bath or even just simply holding them while cleansing them with an incense. However another way to charge crystals is to let them sit near or touching selenite, or more effectively sitting in a selenite charging dish.

Selenite is often used while meditating as it has strong calming energy. It helps with unlocking chakras, especially the crown soul star chakra. But more often selenite is used as a means of decoration to ensure safety for practicing witches' altars. So along with their deities’ statues, herb mixtures, and a plethora crystals, selenite is a popular option for altars. So when setting up your own spiritual altar, stop by Harry’s World on South Street to get some selenite