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In archaeology, the term alabaster is a category of objects and artefacts made from the varieties of two different minerals: (i) the fine-grained, massive type of gypsum, [1] and (ii) the fine-grained, banded type of calcite. [2] Chemically, gypsum is a hydrous sulfate of calcium, whereas calcite is a carbonate of calcium.
Alabaster. A modern uplighter lamp made from Italian alabaster (white and brown types). The base is 5 inches (13 cm) in diameter. Alabaster is a name applied to varieties of two distinct minerals. Gypsum is a hydrous sulfate of calcium, and calcite is a carbonate of calcium.
Feb 20, 2024 · Category: Science & Tech. alabaster, fine-grained, massive gypsum that has been used for centuries for statuary, carvings, and other ornaments. It normally is snow-white and translucent but can be artificially dyed; it may be made opaque and similar in appearance to marble by heat treatment.
- The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica
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Jun 14, 2023 · Alabaster is a mineral that has been used for centuries in art and architecture due to its unique qualities and aesthetic appeal. It is a form of gypsum, a soft sulfate mineral composed of calcium sulfate dihydrate. The name “alabaster” is derived from the Greek word “alabastros,” which refers to a vessel used to hold perfumes or ointments.
Nottingham alabaster is a term used to refer to the English sculpture industry, mostly of relatively small religious carvings, which flourished from the fourteenth century until the early sixteenth century.
Alabaster is a name applied to varieties of two distinct minerals. Gypsum is a hydrous sulfate of calcium, and calcite is a carbonate of calcium. Gypsum is the alabaster of the present day; calcite is generally the alabaster of the ancients.