Calcite alabaster was originally imported from Egypt.
Alabaster is a term used to refer to two forms of calcium. Both are characterized as cream to snow-white in color and have been used in carvings, ornaments, and ornamental statuary for centuries. The color is so memorable that the word is also used to refer to other white objects, which is why the novels refer to “alabaster chests”. Numerous examples of carved alabaster can be found in museums and venerable buildings around the world.
Alabaster is found in caves in the form of mineral deposits.
The ancients preferred alabaster calcite, a very hard form of calcium carbonate. This stone was originally imported from Egypt, a country that also produced several works of art with this mineral. It is often found in caves as a mineral deposited in the form of stalagmites. Modern alabaster is usually gypsum alabaster or calcium sulfate. Gypsum is much softer than calcite and is widely found in England, where seawater deposits have slowly evaporated over the centuries. However, the ancients knew and used both forms.
Alabaster is found in caves in the form of stalagmites.
While white is the classic color associated with alabaster, the mineral can also occur in other colors, such as light brown or reddish, and may be streaked with colors. It is often slightly translucent, and some sculptors work the stone to enhance its natural translucency, giving it a kind of shine. Thinly sliced alabaster was also used to make transparent windows and artifacts. Examples of workings dating back thousands of years have been found in cultures around the world, suggesting the great popularity of the mineral.
Carvers and masons continue to work on alabaster. Some sculptors like to make plaster models, since the mineral is soft and easy to work with. Others may use it to produce parts for sale. The stone is readily available through a wide variety of vendors who mine it from various locations around the world. Various sizes can be purchased depending on need, and it’s a great idea to inspect the stone, if possible, before purchasing to make sure it’s in good condition.
Translucent alabaster objects must be kept cool so they do not tarnish. Water and a soft cloth can be used to clean this mineral, only very mild soaps if soap is needed. In some cases, objects can be waxed to make them less porous, in which case people may want to periodically remove the wax and re-wax the piece. People may want to consult an artist or mason about suitable wax removers for alabaster, and if they have a very old artifact, it’s best to entrust it to someone experienced in preserving such objects.