Material reference

Gypsum · Haplos ng Panahon

Scientific identity, documented history, and community contexts are presented with sources. TÁWID’s contemporary design interpretation is identified separately.

Material identity

Gypsum is calcium sulfate dihydrate, CaSO₄·2H₂O. The water in that formula is part of its crystal structure, distinguishing it from anhydrite. The Handbook of Mineralogy records transparent, fibrous, granular, and massive forms, as well as a hardness of only about 1.5–2. These differences in texture help explain why materials with the same mineral identity can look and behave differently.

Gypsum can develop in evaporite settings and through other reactions involving calcium-bearing rocks and sulfate. A particular crystal’s formation environment must therefore be established from its geological context, rather than assumed from its appearance alone. [1]

Documented historical context

Gypsum alabaster was carved into architectural reliefs at the Assyrian palace at Nimrud. The Met dates one panel to approximately 883–859 BCE. It depicts a winged supernatural figure holding a small bucket and raising an empty hand. Detailed clothing, jewellery, and an inscription remain visible. The museum notes that the reliefs were originally painted, although little pigment survives.

The panel belongs to a royal architectural setting and a wider scheme of supernatural figures. Its historical significance arises from that imagery, inscription, and placement. The mineral provided a workable medium for carving; it did not by itself determine the figure’s meaning.

The object record specifies gypsum alabaster, linking the art-historical material name to its mineral identity. It documents a use far removed from a modern ornamental bead or crystal. TÁWID’s reflection on gradual change is a contemporary addition rather than an Assyrian belief attributed to all gypsum. [2]

TÁWID’s contemporary interpretation

Haplos ng Panahon is TÁWID’s contemporary reflection on gradual change.

Material note

Gypsum is easily scratched and requires gentle handling. Avoid soaking, abrasive cleaning, and contact with harder jewellery; a delicate ornamental use suits its physical properties better than hard everyday wear.

References

1. Handbook of Mineralogy, “Gypsum” (2001–2005)
2. Metropolitan Museum of Art, “Relief panel,” Assyrian, ca. 883–859 BCE, gypsum alabaster

How to read the material guide · Ask about a bracelet