Several types of gypsum are utilized as decorative stones. The most crucial, alabaster, is located as fine-grained masses in pastel shades, but is often stained in stronger colours. Selenite is colourless, occasionally cut for collectors, but very soft. Satin spar is really a fibrous variety, polished or cut “en cabochon”. Rose shapes (called "desert rose") also occur.
Localities include Italy and England (Alabaster), Italy, Mexico, the United States and Chile (Selenite).
Gypsum also comes in cat's eye effect.
