Desert Rose Cluster - Large Chunk (2-3 inch)

This large chunk of Desert Rose Cluster, 2-3 inches in diameter, is great for any mineral collection.

Desert Rose Selenite is a cluster of gypsum bladed crystals forming rose-like plates through a process of moisture condensation, followed by sand and wind erosion, giving it a shape similar to rose blossom. Desert Rose is a beautiful example of the natural power of the shaping forces of wind, water and pressure in dry, arid climates.

The time it takes to form a Deserd Rose Cluster varis depending on the levels of gypsum in the groundwater, ranging from hundreds to thousands to even millions of years.

FOUND IN: ALGERIA, ARGENTINA, MEXICO, MOROCCO, NAMIBIA, SPAIN, TUNISIA, UK & USA.

Desert rose is the colloquial name given to rosette formations of crystal clusters of gypsum or baryte which contain abundant included 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. Gypsum roses usually have better defined, sharper edges than baryte roses. Celestine and other bladed evaporite minerals may also form rosette clusters. The desert rose may also be known by the names: sand rose, rose rock, selenite rose, gypsum rose and baryte (barite) rose.

Specifications:

• Color: Brown, White
• Color of streak: White
• Moh’s hardness: 2
• Specific gravity: 2.3-2.4
• Cleavage: 1.1 – 2.4
• Fracture: Uneven
• Crystal system: Monoclinic
• Chemical composition: CaSO4, 2H2O Hydrous Calcium Sulfate
• Transparency: Transparent to Opaque