Celestine and Sulphur Poland

Pretty Celestine with long, translucent, pale yellow crystals. From the Machów mine in Poland in 2006.

It is composed of strontium sulphate SrSO4 . Its hardness is 3 to 3.5 on the Mohs scale and its density 3.95.

Dimensions of the stone: L: 75mm x W: 50mm x H : 70mm x weight with base: 175g. 

Celestine is a mineral prized for its sky-blue colour and transparency. Its name evokes the heavens, and it is surrounded by various interesting historical anecdotes and folk legends.

Its name comes from the Latin word "caelestis", meaning "celestial" or "of the sky". This name refers to its light blue colour, reminiscent of the sky. This etymology has contributed to its associations with the heavens and spiritual realms.

For example, the ancient Egyptians used celestine to make amulets and jewellery, believing that the stone could attract heavenly blessings and divine protection. Similarly, in the Middle Ages, European alchemists attached great importance to celestine because of its celestial colours and supposed mystical properties. They believed it held the secrets to attaining spiritual purity and divine wisdom.