gemstone

Carnelian cabochon pendant

Carnelian, orange-red chalcedony (microcrystalline quartz, SiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Polished, translucent-to-opaque deep red-orange body with glassy/waxy luster; quartz hardness ~7 Mohs, no visible cleavage, cryptocrystalline trigonal structure, specific gravity about 2.60. The metal setting and loop are human-made, but the pendant stone is geological material.

Identified August 16, 2026More gemstone →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Carnelian forms when iron-bearing silica/chalcedony is deposited in volcanic cavities or sedimentary veins, with iron oxidation producing the red color. It is generally younger than its host rock; exact age cannot be determined visually.

Uses & applications

Used for beads, cabochons, seals, pendants, and ornamental objects. Commercial value is usually modest unless color is vivid, translucency and polish are exceptional, or provenance is notable.

Geological facts

A magnet, streak, or scratch test should not be performed on the mounted stone. Dyed agate or red glass can resemble carnelian, so visual identification is provisional.

Field identification & locations

Common sources include India, Brazil, Uruguay, Madagascar, Germany, and parts of Venezuela; the Caracas-region prior is compatible with chalcedony-bearing volcanic or hydrothermal material, though origin cannot be confirmed. Natural carnelian is typically cool to the touch and may show subtle cloudy bands; glass often has bubbles and a more uniformly vitreous appearance.