gemstone
Carnelian
Silicon Dioxide (Chalcedony variety), SiO2
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, reddish-orange to brown color, waxy to vitreous luster, and trigonal crystal system with cryptocrystalline 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 7 on the Mohs scale, reddish-orange to brown color, waxy to vitreous luster, and trigonal crystal system with cryptocrystalline structure.
Formation & geological history
Forms in low-temperature hydrothermal environments and cavities of volcanic or sedimentary rocks through the deposition of silica-rich groundwater.
Uses & applications
Widely used in jewelry, signet rings, beads, carvings, and as a decorative lapidary stone.
Geological facts
Historically prized by ancient Egyptians, Romans, and Greeks for talismans and royal signet rings due to hot wax not sticking to its surface.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive translucent orange-red hue, conchoidal fracture, and lack of visible crystal faces; found globally including India, Brazil, and the US.
More like this
Other gemstone specimens
Gemstone Ring
N/A - Set piece of jewelry, likely Amethyst or Garnet with Diamond or CZ
gemstone
Ammolite
Ammolite (Biogenic Aragonite with trace elements; fossils of Placenticeras meeki and Placenticeras intercalare)
mineral
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