Selenite Gemstone Beads and Shapes

Frequently asked questions

• How hard is selenite, and is it durable enough for jewelry?

  Selenite is Mohs 2 — among the softest materials in the bead trade. A fingernail can scratch the surface, and the bead doesn't have the durability designers assume from harder stones like quartz, jasper, or agate. Selenite is suitable for necklaces, earrings, and occasional-wear bracelets where the bead doesn't rub against hard surfaces or other beads. It is not suitable for rings or daily-wear bracelets. Design accordingly and the luster will hold up beautifully; ignore the Mohs and the surface will dull and mark quickly.
• Can selenite get wet?

  No. Selenite is gypsum (hydrous calcium sulfate), which is water-soluble — it dissolves slowly in water. Selenite beads should never be soaked, rinsed under running water, or cleaned with damp cloths. Even ordinary humidity over years will dull the surface. Clean with a dry soft cloth only; store in a dry environment.
• Is selenite the same as gypsum?

  Selenite is one variety of gypsum. Gypsum is the mineral species (hydrous calcium sulfate); selenite is the trade and mineralogical name for the transparent-to-translucent crystalline form. The fibrous form of gypsum is called satin spar; the bead market often labels both as "selenite," and both share identical durability and care profiles, so designers can treat them interchangeably for working purposes.
• Is pink selenite natural, or is it dyed?

  Natural selenite is white to pale cream, occasionally pale peach or pale brown when iron is present in the deposit. Saturated pink, purple, green, blue, or multi-color selenite strands are dyed — these colors do not occur in natural selenite. Dakota's current catalog includes both natural and dyed strands; treatment status should be disclosed per strand. Dyed selenite is no less durable than natural (both are still Mohs 2 and water-soluble), but the dye adds a second fragility: avoid solvent contact and never water-clean dyed selenite.
• What sizes and cuts does Dakota carry?

  Our active selenite inventory centers on 6mm, 8mm, and 10mm rounds, with smaller quantities of shaped pieces and other cut variations. White is the dominant natural color; pink, purple, green, blue, and multi-color strands are dyed. Full size and cut availability is filterable in the grid above; designers can confirm exact strand specifications on each listing.