mineral
Carnelian
Silicon Dioxide (Chalcedony variety), SiO2
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, orange to brownish-red color, vitreous to waxy luster, and trigonal crystal system with microcrystalline structure.
Identified More mineral →
Explore Carnelian in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, orange to brownish-red color, vitreous to waxy luster, and trigonal crystal system with microcrystalline structure.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the deposition of silica from groundwater in cavities of pre-existing rocks, often volcanic, over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Widely used in jewelry, signet rings, beads, ornamental carvings, and holistic crystal collections.
Geological facts
Carnelian was historically prized by ancient Egyptians, Romans, and Greeks for talismans and royal signet rings due to its non-stick wax property.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its translucent orange-red body and conchoidal fracture; commonly sourced from India, Brazil, Uruguay, and Madagascar.
