mineral

Carnelian

Carnelian (SiO2 with Fe2O3 impurities)

Hardness: 6.5-7. Color: Red-orange to flesh-colored. Luster: Vitreous to waxy. Crystal structure: Hexagonal (trigonal) - microcrystalline. Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific Gravity: 2.58-2.64.

Hardness: 6
Color: Red-orange to flesh-colored
Luster: Vitreous to waxy

Identified July 5, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in volcanic rock cavities (vesicles) where silica-rich groundwater deposits layers of chalcedony. The orange color is caused by the presence of iron oxide (hematite) impurities throughout the cryptocrystalline quartz structure.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone for jewelry, carvings, and ornamental objects. It is also a popular stone for lapidary collectors and metaphysical use.

Geological facts

Carnelian was prized in ancient Rome for signet rings because hot wax does not stick to it. It has been used in jewelry since the Neolithic period, notably in the Indus Valley Civilization.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its translucent waxy appearance and orange-red hue. It is commonly found in beach gravels, riverbeds, and volcanic regions. Distinct from red jasper because carnelian is translucent, while jasper is opaque.