Peach Selenite derives its name from the Greek word “Selene,” meaning moon, due to its soft, glowing appearance. The “peach” variation of selenite gets its name from its warm, peachy-orange hue, which results from the presence of minerals such as hematite within its crystalline structure.
Composition and Locations
Peach Selenite is a variety of the mineral gypsum, composed primarily of calcium sulfate dihydrate. Its distinct peach colour is due to natural iron oxide inclusions. Like other selenite varieties, it is a soft mineral, with a fibrous and layered crystal structure.
Significant deposits of Peach Selenite can be found in Morocco, Mexico, the United States, Madagascar, and Australia. Morocco is especially known for producing some of the finest quality specimens.
Physical Characteristics
Peach Selenite is characterised by its translucent, fibrous structure and its gentle, peach-to-orange hues. It has a Mohs hardness of 2, making it a very soft mineral that can be easily scratched or damaged by water exposure. When polished, Peach Selenite has a satin-like lustre, often appearing as if it glows from within due to its high natural reflectivity.
Archaeological Finds and Historical Usage
Selenite has been used throughout history for both practical and spiritual purposes. Ancient cultures, including the Egyptians and Greeks, believed it held divine energy and used it for carvings, amulets, and temple decorations. Some ancient texts suggest that selenite was used to create windows in sacred spaces to allow light to pass through, symbolising clarity and enlightenment.
In modern times, Peach Selenite is primarily used in crystal healing, meditation, and decorative carvings such as lamps, wands, and jewellery. Due to its delicate nature, it is often polished or cut into unique shapes for spiritual and aesthetic purposes.
Interesting Facts
- Unlike other crystals, Peach Selenite is self-cleansing and can cleanse other stones placed near it.
- It is sometimes called the “Stone of Emotional Transformation” due to its association with healing past traumas.
- Peach Selenite is highly sensitive to water and will dissolve if left submerged for long periods.
Folklore, Legends, and Tales
According to ancient Greek mythology, Selenite was associated with the goddess Selene, the moon goddess. It was believed that the stone held the energy of the moon and could bring clarity, peace, and protection during sleep.
Many spiritual practitioners believe that Peach Selenite was used by ancient shamans and priests to access divine knowledge and inner wisdom. Some legends claim that placing Peach Selenite near the bed can promote deep dreams and spiritual guidance from ancestors or celestial beings.
Links with Astrology and the Chakra System
Peach Selenite is closely associated with the zodiac signs Cancer, Taurus, and Libra, all of which are linked to emotional balance and inner harmony. It is primarily connected to the Sacral and Crown Chakras, helping to balance emotions, enhance intuition, and promote spiritual enlightenment.
Crystal healers believe that Peach Selenite aids in clearing emotional blockages, fostering self-acceptance, and boosting confidence. It is often used in meditation practices to release stagnant energy and encourage a renewed sense of purpose.
