Alabaster is a fine-grained, translucent variety of gypsum (CaSO₄·2H₂O), historically prized for carving and decorative art. It has been used for thousands of years in sculpture, architecture, and ornamental objects due to its softness and luminous quality.
🌍 Origins and Naming
- Name Origin: From Greek alabastros, originally referring to vessels made of alabaster.
- Type: A rock term, not a distinct mineral species—most alabaster is gypsum, though historically calcite varieties were also called alabaster.
- Appearance: White to cream, sometimes tinted with yellows, pinks, or browns.
🔬 Properties
- Composition: Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO₄·2H₂O).
- Crystal System: Monoclinic (gypsum).
- Texture: Fine-grained, massive, often translucent.
- Hardness: 1.5–2 on Mohs scale (very soft, easily scratched with a fingernail).
- Specific Gravity: ~2.3
- Luster: Waxy to pearly.
⚙️ Geological Occurrence
- Forms in evaporite deposits, where saline waters evaporate leaving gypsum layers.
- Commonly found in sedimentary basins worldwide.
- Major sources: Italy, Egypt, England, Spain, and the United States.
🏛️ Historical and Cultural Significance
- Ancient Egypt: Used for canopic jars, vessels, and tomb decoration.
- Medieval Europe: Extensively carved into altarpieces, effigies, and church decorations.
- Modern Use: Sculptures, lamps, decorative panels, and small ornamental carvings.
- Symbolism: Associated with purity, light, and delicacy.
✨ Conclusion
Alabaster is a soft, fine-grained gypsum rock, treasured for its translucence and ease of carving. From ancient Egyptian vessels to medieval church effigies and modern decorative art, it remains one of the most historically significant ornamental stones.
In short: Alabaster = soft, translucent gypsum, used for carving and decoration since antiquity.
