mineral
Carnelian Agate
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) - Microcrystalline Quartz
Hardness: 6.5-7 on Mohs scale; Color: reddish-orange, brownish-red with translucent banding and orbicular patterns; Luster: vitreous to waxy; Crystal Structure: trigonal (microcrystalline); Cleavage: none, conchoidal fracture.
- Hardness
- 6
- Luster
- vitreous to waxy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7 on Mohs scale; Color: reddish-orange, brownish-red with translucent banding and orbicular patterns; Luster: vitreous to waxy; Crystal Structure: trigonal (microcrystalline); Cleavage: none, conchoidal fracture.
Formation & geological history
Formed in cavities within volcanic or sedimentary rocks through deposition of silica-rich fluids over geological time, typically at low temperatures.
Uses & applications
Popular for lapidary work, jewelry (beads, cabochons, carvings), tumbled stone collecting, and metaphysical practices.
Geological facts
Carnelian has been used in jewelry making for over 4,000 years. Ancient Romans used carnelian signet rings to seal wax documents because hot wax does not stick to it.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its warm orange to red color, translucent body, microcrystalline texture, and concentric banding or eye-like patterns when tumbled. Common in Brazil, India, Madagascar, and the US.
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