GYPSUM – Massive 30cm Transparent Crystal, Qinglong Mine, Guizhou, China

This is a truly imposing gypsum specimen from the Qinglong Mine (also known as the Dachang Mine) in Guizhou Province, southern China — a locality that has, over the past two decades, become internationally recognized among collectors for yielding gypsum of the selenite variety with a clarity and luster rivaling the world-famous crystals of Naica, Mexico.

The specimen is built around one single crystal of exceptional length, reaching approximately 30 centimeters. Gypsum of this variety typically develops as elongated prismatic to tabular blades with a distinct rhombic cross-section, and this piece shows well-defined, flat crystal faces with a smooth, glassy surface texture. The vitreous luster and the near-transparency of the material allow light to travel through the crystal body, producing the soft internal glow that makes selenite so prized both scientifically and aesthetically.

The Qinglong Mine is primarily worked as an active epithermal antimony-gold deposit, with gypsum, along with fluorite, stibnite, calcite and several rare secondary species, occurring as a striking byproduct within cavities and veins of the ore body. Large, gem-clear gypsum crystals of this size are considered a notable find from this locality and are increasingly sought after on the international mineral market.

With its imposing size, structural solidity and clean, transparent crystal habit, this specimen stands as a museum-caliber example of Chinese gypsum, equally impressive as a scientific reference piece or as a bold decorative element in a refined interior.

Gypsum is a hydrated calcium sulfate that crystallizes in the monoclinic system, typically forming prismatic, tabular or bladed crystals with a distinctive rhombic outline and perfect cleavage in one direction. The transparent, glassy variety represented by this specimen is commonly known as selenite. Its colorless, water-clear appearance is a direct result of its chemical purity: gypsum's calcium sulfate structure contains no chromophore elements, so in the absence of iron oxides, clay or other included impurities — which in other specimens can tint the crystal yellow, brown, red or gray — the crystal remains transparent and colorless, allowing light to pass through almost unimpeded.

Gypsum is a notably soft and delicate mineral, ranking only 2 on the Mohs hardness scale, and it is mildly soluble in water over time. Specimens of this kind should therefore always be kept dry, away from prolonged humidity, and handled with care to preserve their crystal faces and edges.

• Formula: CaSO₄·2H₂O
• Key chemical elements: Calcium, Sulfur, Oxygen, Hydrogen
• Hardness (Mohs scale): 2
• Mineral class: Sulfates
• Crystal system: Monoclinic
• Crystal habit: Prismatic to tabular, single elongated crystal (selenite variety)
• Formation: Secondary mineralization within a hydrothermal antimony-gold ore deposit
• Color: Colorless and transparent, due to the absence of chromophore elements or inclusions
• Locality status: Active mine (worked primarily for antimony-gold ore)
• Special features: Soft and water-sensitive; store in a dry environment away from humidity

The Qinglong Mine in Guizhou Province is best known to geologists as one of China's major antimony-gold ore deposits, yet it has become equally famous among mineral collectors worldwide for the exceptional secondary minerals found within its workings — especially large, gem-clear gypsum, vividly colored fluorite, and lustrous stibnite. Fine transparent gypsum from this locality is often compared by collectors to the legendary giant selenite crystals of the Naica Mine in Mexico, though Chinese specimens tend to be smaller in scale and more commonly found as individual blades rather than in massive caves. The mine remains an active operation, and gypsum specimens of this size and clarity are only occasionally recovered, making large, well-formed single crystals like this one a genuinely notable find on today's specimen market.

In crystal healing traditions, gypsum — and particularly its transparent selenite variety — is regarded as a stone of clarity, purification and calm. It is said to help clear stagnant or negative energy from a space, promote mental clarity and support a sense of peace and emotional balance. The name "selenite" derives from Selene, the Greek moon goddess, and practitioners often associate the stone with gentle, moonlike, cleansing energy said to recharge other crystals placed near it. It is also believed by some to support deeper meditation and to encourage honest communication. As with all crystal healing practices, these interpretations are not scientifically proven.

Photos: All photographs are taken under professional lighting conditions to accurately highlight crystal structure, color and detail. However, slight variations in tone and appearance may occur depending on screen calibration and ambient lighting conditions.

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