crystal ID, second attempt

[rollingstone]

Hi, after a major computer mess for the past few days, I'm back trying to post these photos. Thanks all for the suggestions. Hope it actually works this time.

Here is the crystal mass I'm hoping someone can identify:


And here is a pic of some tumbled pieces of BC jade, for a lapidary theme:

[Banjocreek]

We have some smaller crystal formations like that here in Arizona, and they call them desert roses. I'm not betting that it is the same mineral, but very similar.
That Jade looks great!
Doesn't look like you are 'brand new' to this tumbling stuff.
Nice job there 'Rollingstone'!

Now, going to my 'Handbook of Rocks and Minerals' by Walter Schumann page 62, it does indeed seem to match what we call a desert rose, which is actually 'Gypsum' or 'Selenite'.
I'm conviced after reading and looking at the picture, that is what you have there.

[docone31]

It is Selenite. Selenite comes in a variety of colours. It has a mohs about 2 and if you put it into coarse grit for a full cycle, you will have a slurry and wonder where the Selenite went.
However, faceted Selenite, especially the orange, has gone for 2000$ a carat. I have tried to facet Selenite and it is some of the most unpredictable stuff I have done. Much better, commercial grade emerald.
Selenite is georgeous and we have some formations placed around our house. It wraps nicely, however it picks dirt and oils from the skin during wrapping and is a bear to clean.

[donwrob]

Hey the crystal pic made it! Nice photo rollingstone. You did a great job on the jade too ;D Cheers, Don

[creativeminded]

Check this webpage out, it has exactly what you are holding. I had to do a search under desert rose rock.

www.roserockcapital.com/gallery/selenite.html

Tami

[rollingstone]

Thanks very much for the crystal identification!