Quick answer: selenite is a soft, satiny white crystal (a form of gypsum) used to cleanse and recharge other crystals, gemstone jewellery and Rudraksha: you simply rest them on a selenite plate or in a selenite bowl overnight. It is also kept at home for peace, calm and a clear, light atmosphere. Selenite is very soft and dissolves slowly in water, so it must never be washed. Every GemKrishna round-bead bracelet ships with a free raw selenite plate, and we cleanse every piece overnight on selenite before dispatch.
What is selenite?
Selenite is a crystalline form of gypsum (calcium sulphate), hardness about 2, so soft that a fingernail can mark it. Much of the "selenite" sold in plates, towers and bowls is the fibrous, silky variety of gypsum known as satin spar, which has the same chemistry and glow. Both are natural. Major sources include Morocco and Mexico.
How to use a selenite plate (step by step)
- Place the plate on a flat, dry surface away from the bathroom and kitchen sink.
- Lay your crystal bracelet, mala, Rudraksha or gemstone ring on it.
- Leave it overnight. Many people do this weekly, or after a stressful day or travel.
- Wipe the plate with a dry cloth now and then. Never wash it.
Selenite is commonly used because it is said to cleanse other stones without needing to be cleansed itself. It is also the safest cleansing method for stones that should not touch water, such as turquoise, malachite, pyrite and fluorite. More methods: how to cleanse and charge a crystal bracelet.
Selenite benefits and traditional uses
- Cleansing crystals, jewellery and Rudraksha.
- Peace and calm at home; a selenite lamp, tower or bowl in the bedroom or puja room.
- Clarity for meditation and prayer; associated with the crown chakra.
- Vastu: often placed in the north-east or near the entrance; see Vastu crystals.
These are traditional and crystal-practice beliefs, not guaranteed outcomes.
Selenite products and prices at GemKrishna
| Piece | Approx. price |
|---|---|
| Polished square selenite plate with Shree Yantra carving, 3 inch | ₹799 |
| Raw selenite plate | ₹1,060 |
| Polished selenite bowl, small to large | ₹1,800–₹2,800 |
| Selenite bracelet | ₹1,900 |
| Raw selenite crystal, 100 g to 1 kg | ₹2,200–₹13,000 |
| Pink selenite bracelet | ₹3,000 |
Free with every round-bead bracelet: a raw selenite plate, so you can cleanse your bracelet yourself from day one.
Selenite bracelets: wear with care
A selenite bracelet is beautiful and gentle, but the beads are very soft. Take it off before washing hands, bathing, swimming and exercise, and keep it away from perfume and sanitiser. Expect the surface to soften slightly with wear; that is natural. If you want a hard-wearing white stone for daily wear, consider clear quartz (Sphatik) or moonstone instead.
Real vs fake selenite
- Softness: real selenite can be scratched by a fingernail. Glass and white quartz cannot.
- Silky glow: satin spar shows a moving, chatoyant sheen along its fibres when you turn it.
- Weight and feel: selenite feels warm and light compared with glass.
- Plastic and resin "selenite" lamps exist; they show moulding seams and feel waxy.
Buying genuine selenite from GemKrishna
- Lab report with every crystal product, mainly from GJSPC; IGI, GRS, IIGJ, GSI or GIA on request.
- Natural selenite and satin spar, sold by real weight where applicable.
- Securely packed, because selenite chips easily in transit.
- Full refund if a piece is shown not to be natural as stated.
Frequently asked questions
How do I use a selenite plate?
Place your crystals, bracelets, malas or Rudraksha on the plate overnight, ideally once a week. Keep the plate dry and wipe it with a cloth.
Can selenite get wet?
No. Selenite is a soft gypsum mineral that slowly dissolves and loses its shine in water. Keep it dry.
Does selenite need to be cleansed?
Traditionally selenite is said not to need cleansing. Simply keep it clean and dust-free with a dry cloth.
Where can I buy genuine selenite online in India?
GemKrishna sells natural selenite plates, bowls, bracelets and raw selenite, each with a lab report, and includes a free raw selenite plate with every round-bead bracelet.
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