Lavender Jade and Selite (Satin Spar)
Jadeite (variety Lavender Jade) and Gypsum (variety Satin Spar) · Semi-Precious Gemstones and Decorative Minerals.
Crystal System
Monoclinic; Jadeite is typically massive/granular, Gypsum varies from massive to fibrous (Satin Spar).
Mineral Group
Silicates (Pyroxene group) and Sulfates (Hydrous Calcium Sulfate).
Chemical Formula
NaAlSi2O6 (Jadeite); CaSO4 · 2H2O (Gypsum)
Formation Process
Jadeite forms through high-pressure, low-temperature metamorphism. Satin Spar forms through sedimentary evaporation or hydrothermal activity.
About This Crystal
The bracelet features polished spherical beads. Some beads are a vibrant lavender-purple with a translucent to sub-vitreous luster and mottled texture typical of jadeite. The white/colorless beads exhibit a silky, pearly luster with distinct fibrous internal structures and chatoyancy characteristic of satin spar (often marketed as selenite).
Physical Characteristics
Lavender beads: Purple color, white streak, 3.2-3.4 SG. White beads: Colorless/white, white streak, fibrous habit, 2.3 SG, perfect cleavage in one direction.
Optical Properties
Lavender Jadeite: RI ~1.66, refractive with no significant phenomena. Satin Spar: RI ~1.52, strong chatoyancy (cat's eye effect) due to fibrous structure.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Myanmar (Burma), Guatemala, and Russia for Jadeite; Morocco, Mexico, and USA for Satin Spar.
Hardness & Durability
Jadeite: 6.5-7.0 (High toughness). Satin Spar: 2.0 (Very soft, easily scratched by a fingernail, brittle).
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft damp cloth. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and harsh chemicals. The white beads (Satin Spar) are water-soluble over time and extremely soft; store separately to prevent scratching.
Rarity & Value
Lavender jadeite ranges from moderate to high value depending on color saturation and translucency. Satin Spar is very common and inexpensive. Dyed quartz is a frequent imitation for the lavender beads.
Special Characteristics
The white beads show prominent silk-like chatoyancy. The lavender beads may show a granular 'salt-and-sugar' texture under magnification.
Lore & History
Jadeite has been prized in Chinese culture for millennia as the 'Stone of Heaven.' Lavender Jade is traditionally associated with the Crown Chakra and peace. Selenite/Satin Spar is historically used for window panes (lapis specularis) and is associated with clarity and cleansing in modern crystal lore.