mineral
Carnelian / Agate
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) - Chalcedony
Hardness 6.5-7 on the Mohs scale, vitreous to waxy luster, trigonal microcrystalline crystal structure, conchoidal fracture, white streak, specific gravity around 2.58-2.64. Color ranges from translucent orange-red, reddish-brown, to whitish quartz zones.
Identified More mineral →
Explore Carnelian / Agate in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness 6.5-7 on the Mohs scale, vitreous to waxy luster, trigonal microcrystalline crystal structure, conchoidal fracture, white streak, specific gravity around 2.58-2.64. Color ranges from translucent orange-red, reddish-brown, to whitish quartz zones.
Formation & geological history
Formed at low temperatures through the precipitation of silica-rich solutions in the cavities and veins of volcanic, igneous, or sedimentary rocks.
Uses & applications
Widely used in jewelry making, beadwork, cabochons, carvings, and lapidary crafts. Popular as a healing stone and collector specimen.
Geological facts
Carnelian has been used as a gemstone for over 4,500 years. Ancient Romans used carnelian to make engraved rings for signets, as wax would not stick to it.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its waxy luster, translucency, reddish-orange hues, and high hardness (scratches glass). Commonly found in gravel beds, river beaches, and volcanic terrains globally.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Sandstone with Mineral Veining or Crust
Sedimentary Sandstone (mostly SiO2 with Fe2O3 tinting)
sedimentary
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)
mineral
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock