mineral

Carnelian (Polished Agate/Jasper)

SiO2 (Silicon Dioxide - Microcrystalline Quartz)

Hardness: 6.5-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Warm orange, red-orange, yellow-brown with orbicular patterns; Luster: Waxy to vitreous when polished; Crystal structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline); Cleavage: None, conchoidal fracture; Specific gravity: ~2.58-2.64

Hardness: 6
Luster: Waxy to vitreous when polished

Identified July 22, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms secondary deposits in hydrothermal veins, volcanic cavities, and sedimentary rock environments as silica-rich water precipitates iron oxides inside microcrystalline quartz lattices.

Uses & applications

Popularly used as lapidary material for tumbled gemstones, beads, cabochons, carvings, decorative ornaments, and crystal healing collections.

Geological facts

Carnelian's rich orange and red colors are caused by iron oxide impurities. It has been used in jewelry making and signet ring carving since ancient Roman and Egyptian times.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its warm reddish-orange translucency, hardness, and smooth waxy polish. Commonly found in Madagascar, India, Brazil, and the Western United States.

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