How to polish selenite?

Selenite crystals, renowned for their ethereal beauty and metaphysical properties, require delicate care to maintain their pristine appearance. This guide offers a comprehensive overview of the proper methods to handle, clean, and polish your cherished selenite crystals. Understanding the fragility and unique characteristics of selenite is essential to ensure its longevity.

Understanding Selenite:

Before delving into the maintenance process, it's crucial to grasp the delicate nature of selenite. As a soft crystal that does not react well to prolonged water exposure, selenite demands cautious handling. This fragility adds to its allure but necessitates specific care methods.

Repairing Surface Damage:

The desire to polish selenite often arises when the crystal's surface sustains scratches or damage. To address this, a simple solution involves using fine grit sandpaper. Gently rubbing the sandpaper along the surface helps eliminate scratches. Caution is advised to avoid inhaling selenite dust during the process.

After using sandpaper, refrain from cleaning the crystal in a sink or bathtub, as excessive water can harm the selenite. Instead, opt for a wet cloth if further cleaning is required.

Polishing Techniques:

• Toothpaste Method: A widely used technique involves using toothpaste to achieve a smooth, polished surface. Apply a small amount of toothpaste to a slightly wet cloth and gently rub it up and down the crystal. Follow up with a dry cloth to remove any remaining moisture.

• Olive Oil Method: For a natural polish, olive oil proves effective. Apply a small amount to a dry tissue and gently rub it into the crystal. Use a dry tissue to remove excess oil. This method imparts a beautiful shine to the selenite.

• Nail Buffer or House Polish: For a professional touch, a nail buffer or regular house polish can be employed. Apply the chosen substance to a dry cloth and gently rub it over the crystal. This inexpensive solution yields a polished finish. If using house polish, spraying it on the crystal and rubbing with a dry cloth can also be effective.

Tumbler Polishing: Smaller selenite pieces, like tumbled stones, can be efficiently polished using a tumbler. Placing selenite chunks inside the tumbler with water allows them to spin for a few hours. This process removes trapped minerals and smooths rough edges, resulting in a polished surface. It is advised against using larger selenite pieces in the tumbler, as they are more likely to break.

Water Polishing: For a gentler approach, some opt to polish selenite by placing the crystal in water for a brief period and then drying it with a cloth. This method, when used sparingly, should not harm the crystal.

Conclusion: As you embark on the journey of caring for your selenite crystals, remember that patience and gentle techniques are paramount. Whether repairing surface damage or seeking a polished finish, these methods cater to various preferences. Cherish the elegance of your selenite crystals by adopting these careful practices, ensuring they remain captivating pieces of natural artistry. Explore our collection of pristine selenite crystals and elevate your crystal care routine.