gemstone

Carnelian

Silicon dioxide (SiO2) with iron oxide impurities

Hardness: 6.5-7 Mohs; Color: Orange-red to brownish-red; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Translucency: Translucent to opaque.

Hardness: 6
Color: Orange-red to brownish-red
Luster: Vitreous to waxy

Identified July 13, 2026More gemstone →

Explore Carnelian in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 6.5-7 Mohs; Color: Orange-red to brownish-red; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal structure: Hexagonal (trigonal); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Translucency: Translucent to opaque.

Formation & geological history

Formed as a cryptocrystalline variety of quartz within volcanic rocks (basalt or andesite cavities) or as nodules in sedimentary environments. Its distinctive color comes from the inclusion of iron oxide (hematite).

Uses & applications

Primarily used in jewelry for beads, cabochons, and rings. Historically significant for making seals, talismans, and intaglios in ancient civilizations.

Geological facts

Carnelian has been used for over 4,500 years. The ancient Egyptians believed it had protective properties and used it extensively in the funerary ornaments of Pharaohs, including Tutankhamun.

Field identification & locations

Look for a waxy luster and a translucent, reddish-orange body color. Often found in riverbeds or coastal areas as smoothed pebbles. Major sources include Brazil, Uruguay, India, and Madagascar.

Other gemstone specimens

See all

Cubic Zirconia (simulant) or Diamond

ZrO2 (Cubic Zirconia) or C (Diamond)

gemstone

Ammolite

Ammolite (Biogenic Aragonite with trace elements; fossils of Placenticeras meeki and Placenticeras intercalare)

mineral

Cubic Zirconia (or possibly Diamond)

Zirconium dioxide (or Carbon)

gemstone

Red Jasper

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Hematite inclusions

sedimentary

Faceted Gemstone

Unknown transparent mineral, possibly Diamond (C), Cubic Zirconia (ZrO2), Quartz (SiO2), or Glass

gemstone

Milky Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

mineral