sedimentary
Carnelian Agate
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) - variety of Chalcedony
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs scale), Color: semi-transparent orange to reddish-brown, Luster: waxy to vitreous, Crystal Structure: Cryptocrystalline, Fracture: Conchoidal
- Hardness
- 6
Identified More sedimentary →
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 (Mohs scale), Color: semi-transparent orange to reddish-brown, Luster: waxy to vitreous, Crystal Structure: Cryptocrystalline, Fracture: Conchoidal
Formation & geological history
Formed as a secondary mineral in volcanic cavities or sedimentary environments by the deposition of silica from groundwater; often found as water-worn pebbles on beaches.
Uses & applications
Commonly used in jewelry, lapidary arts for cabochons and beads, and historically used for signet rings and wax seals.
Geological facts
Carnelian has been used as a gemstone since prehistoric times, appearing in ancient Egyptian tombs and Roman signet rings. Its orange color comes from iron oxide impurities.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its waxy texture, translucency, and warm orange hue. Usually found on beaches or in gravel beds where volcanic rocks have eroded.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Fossiliferous Sedimentary Rock
Sedimentary limestone with invertebrate fossil imprint
fossil
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite
sedimentary
Quartz pebble
Silicon dioxide (SiO2)
sedimentary
Shale
Shale (clastic sedimentary rock)
sedimentary
Shale (or Mudstone/Siltstone)
Sedimentary Mudrock (SiO2, Al2O3 base with clay minerals)
sedimentary