mineral
Carnelian Agate
Chalcedony (SiO2 with Iron Oxide inclusions)
Hardness: 6.5-7 Mohs; Color: Translucent orange to reddish-brown; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (cryptocrystalline); Specific Gravity: 2.58-2.64
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Translucent orange to reddish-brown
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7 Mohs; Color: Translucent orange to reddish-brown; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (cryptocrystalline); Specific Gravity: 2.58-2.64
Formation & geological history
Formed primarily in volcanic environments where silica-rich fluids deposit layers in gas cavities (vesicles). The orange hue is caused by iron oxide impurities. Found in rocks ranging from the Cenozoic to Precambrian eras.
Uses & applications
Widely used for jewelry, lapidary art, seal stones, and as metaphysical or tumbled collector stones.
Geological facts
Ancient Egyptians called carnelian 'the setting sun' and used it in amulets for protection. It is a birthstone for the zodiac sign Virgo.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its characteristic waxy luster and translucent orange bands or patches. Found commonly in Brazil, India, Uruguay, and Madagascar.
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