Selenite vs Satin Spar

True Selenite, in the geological sense, is a transparent, glassy variety of gypsum, it forms in clear, blade-like crystals that you can see through, sometimes called 'fishtail' or 'window' Selenite. In traditional crystal healing, the energy attributed to Selenite is one of clarity, illumination, and spiritual cleansing. Crystal Bible author Judy Hall describes Selenite as 'one of the most powerful stones for the new vibration on the Earth.'

In my practice, the rare clear Selenite specimens, when you can find them, carry a slightly more crystalline, focused energy. Most of what is sold today as 'Selenite' is actually Satin Spar (next column), and that is fine, both work, but it helps to know which you have. Author Melody describes Selenite as 'a stone of mental clarity.'

For a deeper profile of this stone, see the full Selenite page. If you're shopping, my Selenite authenticity guide walks through the most common fakes and the hands-on tests that catch them.

Satin Spar is the fibrous, satiny form of gypsum, what you almost certainly have if you bought 'Selenite' wand from a shop. The long, parallel fibers create that distinctive silky shimmer when you tilt it in light. Geologically, it is the same mineral species as Selenite (gypsum), but a different crystal habit. Crystal Bible author Judy Hall describes Selenite (the trade name commonly used for Satin Spar) as 'a powerful cleanser of negative energy.'

In my practice, Satin Spar is the workhorse cleansing tool in nearly every crystal collection, the wand or slab you place your other stones on overnight to recharge them. Author Melody notes that 'Selenite' (typically Satin Spar in commercial trade) provides for 'clarity of mind.' The energy traditionally attributed to Selenite is generally considered to apply to Satin Spar as well, they are, mineralogically, the same.