Why the Selenite Crystal Is the “Moon Stone”

What Is Selenite?

Selenite is a translucent variety of the mineral gypsum. Known for its soft, luminous appearance that resembles moonlight, selenite forms in long, delicate crystals or flat sheets. This mineral exhibits a vitreous or glassy luster, but can be pearly in cleavage surfaces.

Selenite Meaning “Moon Stone”

Selenite’s deep-rooted association with the moon is evident in its name. The word comes from the Greek selenites, meaning “stone of the moon.” The physical properties of selenite — its soft, luminous appearance — evoke the subtle glow of moonlight. Thus, selenite was not only associated with the moon, but was also named after the heavenly body.

Was there greater meaning to how selenite acquired the designation of “moon stone?” Or was it simply a whim on the part of the ancients to name the stone after the moon?

Selenite & the Moon

When held to the light, selenite exhibits a subtle glow, resembling the way moonlight illuminates dark landscapes. This visual similarity associated selenite with the moon not only in its physical identity, but also in mystical traditions.

Given its luminous nature, selenite was thought to be moonlight in solid form. Ancient Greeks and Romans believed the stone to wax and wane in brightness along with the phases of the moon. The stone’s power reportedly varies in the same manner. Here we need to point out that the moon in ancient cosmology was not merely the earth’s natural satellite, but a goddess, an essence of whom selenite supposedly carried.

Selenite & the Goddess Selene

In the ancient Greek religion, the moon was a goddess, her name Selene. Selene often appeared in art driving a silver chariot across the night sky and illuminating the darkness. The essence of her moonlight is supposedly present in selenite, which thus symbolized renewal and emotional rejuvenation, similar to the way the moon appears anew after each cycle.

Selenite & Lunar Energy

The moon has long borne an association with the emotional and intuitive aspects of the self. Just as the moon governs the ocean tides, the heavenly body influences human emotions, which supposedly flow in cycles.

As the stone of the moon, selenite is a stone of emotional clarity. Like the moon, which reflects sunlight without generating its own light, selenite is a reflective stone that helps illuminate hidden truths and emotions, thus aiding in introspection and self-awareness. Moreover, much like the moon’s association with dreams and subconscious knowledge, selenite enhances intuition.

Unsuitability for Jewelry

Given these metaphysical properties that would be much valued in a gem, it’s a wonder how selenite has not appeared widely in jewelry. The reason comes down to the stone being very soft and fragile. With a Mohs hardness of only 2, selenite is easily scratched or chipped. Its delicate structure can also cause this fibrous mineral to crumble or fracture under pressure.

Additionally, selenite is sensitive to water, which can cause the stone to deteriorate or lose its luster over time. In fact, selenite can dissolve in water within a few hours. This vulnerable makeup makes selenite unsuitable for everyday wear. The stone simply lacks the durability required for most jewelry.

Uses of Selenite Crystal

Instead of jewelry, selenite more commonly figures as decorative objects and as implements in spiritual practices.

Purification with Selenite Crystal

Selenite is thought to carry a calming, purifying energy, making it an essential tool for cleansing and charging other crystals. Its link to the moon adds to this symbolism, since the moon itself has purifying properties — especially during the full moon, a time traditionally used for releasing emotional burdens.

Meditation with Selenite Crystal

Meditation with selenite is said to bring clarity of mind, akin to the clarity one might find by observing the moon on a quiet night. The stone’s energy guards against negative influences, just as the moon watches over the night. Such mystical association made selenite a protective talisman, especially for those seeking divine guidance or emotional peace.

Moon Rituals with Selenite Crystal

Since selenite’s gentle energy aligns with lunar themes of renewal and healing, the stone is popular in rituals that mark the phases of the moon. From the new moon to the full moon, selenite carries distinct spiritual meanings, and is often employed to complement these phases.

For instance:

• During the new moon, selenite can aid in setting new intentions, helping users align with the fresh, creative energy of this phase.
• During the full moon, selenite can be used to amplify energy, enhance intuition and reflect on accomplishments.
• Under the waning moon, selenite supports emotional cleansing and encourages the release of negative patterns.

Selenite Today

In modern spiritual practices, selenite continues to be associated with the moon. The stone embodies the gentle, illuminating qualities of moonlight, helping individuals achieve emotional clarity, intuition and spiritual growth. Just as the moon influences the tide, selenite aligns individuals with the subtle shifts in their emotional and spiritual lives.