gemstone
Carnelian
Silicon dioxide (Chalcedony variety)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, orange to reddish-brown color, waxy to vitreous luster, and microcrystalline trigonal structure.
Identified More gemstone →
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 reddish-brown color, waxy to vitreous luster, and microcrystalline trigonal structure.
Formation & geological history
Forms in silica-rich groundwater filling cavities in volcanic and sedimentary rocks over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Widely used in jewelry, cabochons, beads, and carved decorative items like signet rings.
Geological facts
Ancient Egyptians wore carnelian to ensure safe passage to the afterlife, and it was favored for royal signet seals.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive translucent orange-to-red hue and conchoidal fracture; found globally, notably in India, Brazil, and Madagascar.
More like this
Other gemstone specimens
Ammolite
Ammolite (Biogenic Aragonite with trace elements; fossils of Placenticeras meeki and Placenticeras intercalare)
mineral
Gemstone Ring
N/A - Set piece of jewelry, likely Amethyst or Garnet with Diamond or CZ
gemstone
Topaz
Al2SiO4(F,OH)2
mineral
Amber
Succinite (Organic Gemstone)
mineral
Diamond and Gold Jewelry
Carbon (Diamond) / Au (Gold)
gemstone
Red Jasper
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Hematite inclusions
sedimentary