Alabaster

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Physical & Optical Properties

Category Collector Gems
Mohs Hardness 2,0
Specific Gravity 2,3 – 2,33
Refractive Index 1,52 – 1,53
Crystal System Monoclinic
Cleavage Good
Color various

Mohs Hardness

Mohs Hardness: 2,0
1 Soft10 Hard

Crystal System

β a b c Monoclinic a ≠ b ≠ c, α = γ = 90°, β ≠ 90°

Value & Market

Price Tier Budget (< $50/ct)

Where to Buy Alabaster

Amazon Wide selection

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Treatments

2Walter Schumann, Gemstones of the world (2001) More from other references 2.30 to 2.33Michael O?Donoghue, Gems, Sixth edition (2006) GoodMichael O?Donoghue, Gems, Sixth edition (2006) 1.520 to 1.530Walter Schumann, Gemstones of the world (2001) More from other references +0.010Walter Schumann, Gemstones of the world (2001) NoneWalter Schumann, Gemstones of the world (2001) White, pink, brownish.Walter Schumann, Gemstones of the world (2001) More from other references Translucent,OpaqueWalter Schumann, Gemstones of the world (2001) Translucent at edgesMore from other references Usually a brownish shadeMichael O?Donoghue, Gems, Sixth edition (2006) MonoclinicMichael O?Donoghue, Gems, Sixth edition (2006) MassiveMichael O?Donoghue, Gems, Sixth edition (2006) It may be formed in mineral veins where sulphuric acid, derived from the oxidation of pyrite and other sulphides, has acted upon limestone.Michael O?Donoghue, Gems, Sixth edition (2006) Alabaster information at mindat.org Italy&nbsp; Gems, Sixth Edition, Michael O’Donoghue , 2006, p. 378 Peru&nbsp; UK&nbsp; Gems, Sixth Edition, Michael O’Donoghue , 2006, p. 379

About Alabaster

Alabaster is a fine-grained, massive form of gypsum or, less commonly, calcite, prized for its smooth, translucent white to pale pink surface and ease of carving. Egyptian and Mesopotamian craftsmen used alabaster for canopic jars and decorative vessels as early as 5,000 years ago, and it remains a favored material for sculpture today. Its warm luminosity when backlit gives alabaster a distinctive, almost glowing quality unlike any other stone.

Jewelry Use

Durability 1/10

Science FYI Family

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Alabaster?
Alabaster is a fine-grained, massive form of gypsum or, less commonly, calcite, prized for its smooth, translucent white to pale pink surface and ease of carving. Egyptian and Mesopotamian craftsmen used alabaster for canopic jars and decorative vessels as early as 5,000 years ago, and it remains a
What is the hardness of Alabaster?
Alabaster has a Mohs hardness of 2.0, making it relatively soft for use in jewelry.
What color is Alabaster?
Alabaster is primarily Various.
How much does Alabaster cost?
Alabaster falls into the Budget (< $50/ct) price range. Prices vary based on color, clarity, cut, and origin.
What is the crystal system of Alabaster?
Alabaster belongs to the Monoclinic crystal system.