gemstone
Carnelian
Silicon Dioxide (Chalcedony variety, SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 6.5-7 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 6.5-7 on the Mohs scale, orange to reddish-brown color, waxy to vitreous luster, and microcrystalline trigonal structure.
Formation & geological history
Forms in cavities of volcanic and sedimentary rocks through the deposition of silica-rich groundwater over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Widely used in rings, pendants, beads, and carved into intaglios or cameos for jewelry.
Geological facts
Ancient Egyptians associated carnelian with the goddess Isis and used it in amulets for protection in the afterlife.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its translucent orange hue and conchoidal fracture; found globally, notably in Brazil, India, 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
Amber
Succinite (Organic Gemstone)
mineral
Diamond and Gold Jewelry
Carbon (Diamond) / Au (Gold)
gemstone
Red Jasper
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Hematite inclusions
sedimentary
Pearl necklace
Pearl, primarily aragonite (CaCO₃) and conchiolin
gemstone