Description
Fine grained, compact variety of gypsum (hydrated calcium sulfate), usually white or pale colored and translucent Alabaster is soft and can be scratched slightly with a fingernail. It also dissolves slowly in wet environments. Alabaster was used since ancient times in the Iran, Pakistan, Egypt, Greece, Algeria, Tunisia, and Italy for ornamental building work, sculpture, vases, and small decorative carvings. Powdered alabaster has been used as a paper filler and paint pigment called mineral white or terra alba.
The word alabaster is derived from the Greek word for substance. In ancient times, it was used to refer to several other minerals such as limestone onyx, travertine and calcite.
See also Egyptian alabaster.
Synonyms and Related Terms
gypsum; satin spar; alabastrine; Alabaster (Deut., Pol., Sven.); alabastro (Esp., It., Port.); albâtre (Fr.); albast (Ned.)
| CaSO4.2H2O |
| 1.5 - 2.0 |
| 2.31-2.33 |
Other Properties
Slightly soluble in water.
Monoclinic crystal system. Fibrous. Cleavage is good in one direction.
Streak is white.
Hazards and Safety
May be damaged by water and abrasion.
Additional Information
B.Aston, J.Harrell, I.Shaw, "Stone" in Ancient Egyptian Materials and Technology, P.Nicholson, I.Shaw (eds.), Cambridge University Press, 2000, p. 21-22.
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Last updated on: 3/9/2010 9:45:40 AM
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