Description: “Lucky-8” Gypsum (Selenite) Desert Rose Cluster, Mexico, 3¼” x 1.75” x 1.75” Description: · Cabinet size specimen of 8 well-formed Gypsum (Selenite) Desert Roses in a cluster · Source: Mexico · Size: Approximately 3¼” x 1.75” x 1.75”; largest individual rosette approximately 3 cm! · Condition: Good, on display in cabinet only A beautiful and unique cabinet size specimen of rosette shaped Gypsum with sand inclusions in a cluster. A total of 8 well-formed rosettes in a cluster, very aesthetic in appearance with a two-tone color, the shades of white highlighting the edges of the rosette shaped Gypsum. Gypsum sometimes forms in sandy areas, and crystals may trap sand inside when forming, as with this featured specimen, causing it to become brown and opaque. The rosette crystal habit tends to occur when the crystals form in arid sandy conditions, and the crystals form a circular array of flat plates, giving the rock a shape similar to a rose blossom. This featured cluster specimen has a nice shape and form; a good cabinet size filled with 8 well-defined large beautiful rosettes, the largest rosette approximately 3 cm, hence I call it the “Lucky-8”. There are also smaller rosettes beneath, plus the natural sand inclusions as a unique formation habit makes this specimen very appealing indeed. It shows and displays well at any angle and would certainly be a nice addition to any mineral collection! This fine specimen can be yours for $20.95 plus shipping and handling. Specimen Background information: Gypsum is an evaporite mineral most commonly found in layered sedimentary deposits in association with halite, anhydrite, sulfur, calcite, and dolomite. Desert rose is the colloquial name given to rose-like formations of crystal clusters of gypsum which include abundant sand grains. The 'petals' are crystals flattened on the c crystallographic axis, fanning open in radiating flattened crystal clusters. The rosette crystal habit tends to occur when the crystals form in arid sandy conditions, such as the evaporation of a shallow salt basin. The crystals form a circular array of flat plates, giving the rock a shape similar to a rose blossom. Gypsum roses usually have better defined, sharper edges than baryte roses, which are formed from a different mineral Barite. The desert rose may also be known by the names: sand rose, rose rock, selenite rose, and gypsum rose. Gypsum is a source of Plaster of Paris and other plasters. It is a very soft mineral. The rose type formation is called Desert Rose. Gypsum dissolves in water, and so such crystals, which take a long time to grow, only happen in very dry conditions, such as deserts. Gypsum occurs in nature as flattened and often twinned crystals and transparent cleavable masses called selenite. It may also occur silky and fibrous, in which case it is commonly called satin spar. The word gypsum is derived from the Greek word γύψος (gypsos), “chalk” or “plaster”. Because the quarries of the Montmartre district of Paris have long furnished burnt gypsum (calcined gypsum) used for various purposes, this dehydrated gypsum became known as plaster of Paris. The featured gypsum specimen listed here is of another variety. Gypsum sometimes forms in sandy areas, and crystals may trap sand inside when forming, causing a specimen to become brown or gray and opaque. These sand inclusions sometimes form hourglass formations in a crystal. They are also present in the well-known "Desert Rose", which is rosette shaped Gypsum with sand inclusions. Note: **All specimens are taken in natural and regular lighting only. This specimen looks better in person in order to appreciate its true natural color, shape, form and unique rosette crystal formation habit with sand inclusions. Please also note that color may be a little different due to the color calibration of each individual monitor or light levels. **As with all genuine mineral specimens, there may be natural occurring inclusions (sand inclusions as with this featured specimen), formations and impressions. We have posted close up pictures at all angles for your viewing pleasure in this listing, to show you the fine details, color, form, structure and overall beauty of this fine specimen. **We will only ship to the 48 contiguous U.S. states (No International). **All orders ship within 3-5 business days after receiving cleared payment. Returns accepted ONLY if item is not as described or shown and must be in the condition it was received. A 10% re-stocking fee will be charged. All returns must be made within 7 calendar days upon receipt of item and buyer pays for return shipping. No returns or refunds are accepted after this time period. All returns must be in original packaging and shipped with Tracking and Insured for full value of the item. Please provide shipping info – shipper, tracking number - to us when package is sent back. Feel free to contact us should you have any questions. Please also visit our other listings. Thank you for stopping by and do come back again.
Price: 20.95 USD
Location: Sacramento, California
End Time: 2025-01-30T01:52:47.000Z
Shipping Cost: 6.25 USD
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Item Specifics
Restocking Fee: No
Return shipping will be paid by: Buyer
All returns accepted: Returns Accepted
Item must be returned within: 14 Days
Refund will be given as: Money Back
Country/Region of Manufacture: Mexico