gemstone
Carnelian Agate
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
Hardness: 6.5-7 Mohs; Color: Orange-red to brownish-red with concentric banding; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Structure: Cryptocrystalline; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.58-2.64
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Orange-red to brownish-red with concentric banding
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy
Identified More gemstone →
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; Color: Orange-red to brownish-red with concentric banding; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Structure: Cryptocrystalline; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.58-2.64
Formation & geological history
Formed in volcanic cavities or sedimentary rocks through the deposition of silica from groundwater; color is derived from iron oxide (hematite) impurities.
Uses & applications
Primarily used for jewelry, lapidary arts, metaphysical talismans, and ornamental carvings like the Pi Disc shape shown.
Geological facts
Carnelian was widely used in Ancient Egypt for scarabs and amulets, often associated with the goddess Isis. It was also popular in Roman signet rings because hot wax does not stick to it.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive translucency and banded patterns. Common sources include Brazil, India, Madagascar, and Uruguay. Collectors look for high clarity and rich, natural coloration.
More like this
Other gemstone specimens
Cubic Zirconia (simulant) or Diamond
ZrO2 (Cubic Zirconia) or C (Diamond)
gemstone
Ammolite
Ammolite (Biogenic Aragonite with trace elements; fossils of Placenticeras meeki and Placenticeras intercalare)
mineral
Cubic Zirconia (or possibly Diamond)
Zirconium dioxide (or Carbon)
gemstone
Red Jasper
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Hematite inclusions
sedimentary
Faceted Gemstone
Unknown transparent mineral, possibly Diamond (C), Cubic Zirconia (ZrO2), Quartz (SiO2), or Glass
gemstone
Milky Quartz
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
mineral