GYPSUM
(alabaster)
Several varieties of gypsum are used as decorative stones. The most important, alabaster, is found as fine-grained masses in pastel shades, but is commonly stained in stronger colours. Selenite is colourless, occasionally cut for collectors, but very soft. Satin spar (which I think my bit is) is a fibrous variety. Localities include Italy and England (alabaster); Italy, Mexico, the USA and Chile (selenite).
Hardness: 2
Gypsum (showing wonderful "herringbone" formation) from Cognac, France