How can you keep alabaster clean?
Cleaning alabaster items is easy when you use gentle products. Simply wipe them down with white spirit or mineral spirits to remove dust and marks without damaging the surface. Twice a year, add a soft layer of colorless wax to help protect the stone and maintain its natural glow.
What exactly is alabaster?
Alabaster refers to two types of soft minerals: gypsum alabaster and calcite alabaster. Loved by artists and architects, alabaster has a beautiful, translucent quality that gives it a unique and appealing look. Read on to discover the types, features, and uses of this elegant stone.
Types of Alabaster and Their Characteristics
- Gypsum Alabaster
Gypsum alabaster is softer and easier to work with, making it ideal for hand-carving. It comes in a range of colors—from white and cream to rare shades like green and black. The color variations come from natural minerals and impurities in the stone, giving each piece a unique appearance. - Calcite Alabaster
Also known as oriental alabaster, this type is a bit harder and has a yellowish-white color. It is sometimes called “onyx marble” because its layered pattern looks similar to onyx. Known for its durability, calcite alabaster is popular for decorative items that need a bit more strength.
Unique Qualities of Alabaster
- Translucence
One of alabaster’s most striking qualities is its ability to let light through. This feature creates a warm, soft glow when used in sculptures, lamps, or decorative objects—adding a cozy elegance to any room. - Softness
Alabaster is quite soft, with a hardness of 1.5 to 2 for gypsum alabaster and 3 for calcite alabaster. While this softness makes alabaster easy to carve, it also means the stone can scratch or chip easily. Because of this, it’s important to handle alabaster with care to avoid damage.
Popular Uses of Alabaster
For centuries, alabaster has been a favorite material for both art and interior design. Here are some of its most popular uses today:
- Sculptures
Alabaster’s softness and translucent quality make it ideal for creating intricate sculptures. Artists can easily carve alabaster into delicate shapes that capture and reflect light beautifully. - Architecture and Interior Design
Alabaster is used in interiors for decorative wall panels, lamps, and even translucent window inserts. The soft, diffused light it provides can make a space feel warm and inviting. - Decorative Objects
From vases and bowls to candle holders and even chess sets, alabaster is a go-to for high-quality decorative pieces. Its soft glow and natural beauty make it a great choice for adding a touch of luxury to your decor.
Caring for Alabaster: Tips to Keep It Looking Great
Alabaster is soft and can absorb moisture, so it’s best to keep it indoors and protect it from water and impacts. Place alabaster items in stable areas where they’re less likely to be bumped or knocked over. Clean with a gentle cloth and mild cleaners like white spirit to preserve its natural beauty without damaging the surface.
Quick Tips and Summary
Alabaster remains a timeless material, appreciated for its soft, glowing beauty and versatility. With occasional care, including a gentle cleaning and a touch of wax, you can help your alabaster items keep their shine and stay in top condition. For an extra glow, place alabaster pieces in a spot where they can catch soft, natural light to bring out their full beauty.
