Differences Between Angelite and Celestite

Celestite and angelite are two stones that are often mixed up.

While they are often confused, and rightfully so, they are different stones, of course. From the chemical composition differences to metaphysical, let’s explore the differences between angelite and celestite.

What is the difference between angelite and celestite?

Chemical Composition

Celestite shares the same chemical markup as blue barite and is often mistaken between the two. Celestite is a strontium sulfate and comes from the barite family.

Angelite is a calcium sulfate anhydrite that will form gypsum, whereas celestite will form from compression. Chemically, the two are almost the same, however, the only difference is that gypsum will have a water element added to it. Whenever gypsum comes in contact with water and dissolves, this is when angelites will form.

Cleavage

Angelite has perfect cleavage in two directions, while Celestite has perfect cleavage in three directions.

Color

Celestite will have a range of “blue” colors, ranging from an almost pale to something much more vibrant. While rare, you can sometimes spot brown or red tints scattered about the surface.

Angelite is more of a lilac-blue stone that will have white streaks scattered about. Brown-colored inclusions can exist as well, which is due to the iron or hematite inclusions. These brown streaks are often a good indicator that it’s angelite, not celestite.

Crystal structure

Angelite will have a monoclinic crystal structure (two unit cells), while Celestite has an orthorhombic crystal structure (three axes and is at right angles to each other.

Geographical location

Most of the celestite you see will come from Madagascar, but it’s mined in smaller quantities throughout the world as well.

Angelite, on the other hand, is found mostly in Peru, however, you can find deposits in Mexico, Egypt and even parts of the United States.

Hardness

Both stones are relatively soft, scoring a 3-3.5 on the Mohs scale.  If you were to expose these stones to salt, water or even higher temperatures, they can easily be destroyed.  As one of the more fragile stones, they are mainly used for home decor and not jewelry.  Never expose either of these stones in the direct sun or water for long periods of time.

Origin

Angelite is primarily found in Peru, while Celestite is primarily found in Madagascar.

Pattern

Celestite will have more of a glossy color, which can vary from translucent to transparent in terms of clarity.  You can also see visible white banding formations when viewed up close.

Angelites will have more of a vitreous luster but will only be translucent.

Price

Usually, angelite is less expensive than celestite, mainly because it’s more abundant.  Angelite towers, raw pieces and spheres, for example, can retail for $3 to $15, on average, whereas smaller celestite clusters can be about $15.  Larger pieces, however, can be well into the hundreds of dollars.

Chakra

Angelite is associated with the throat chakra, which is responsible for effective communication and self expression.  This is the very chakra that is the voice of all the other energy points.

Celestite is associated with the third eye chakra, however, some believe it’s associated with the throat chakra because of the blue color.  A balanced third eye chakra will help with open mindedness as well as  intuition.  

Metaphysical Properties

Angelite is believed to enhance psychic abilities and aid in astral travel, whereas celestite is believed to enhance communication with higher realms and facilitate spiritual growth. 

Mythology

Angelite is commonly associated with communication with angels and spiritual guides, whereas celestite is associated with communication and divine inspiration.

Uses

Angelite is commonly used for promoting calmness, peace, and tranquility, while celestite is commonly used for enhancing intuition and creativity.

Zodiac

Neither celestite or angelite is associated with a birthstone officially; however, it doesn’t mean spiritualists connect it with a zodiac sign.

Angelite is associated closely with Cancer signs, whereas a celestite is closely associated with Pisces.