mineral
Carnelian
Silicon Dioxide (Chalcedony variety), SiO2
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, orange to reddish-brown color, vitreous to waxy luster, microcrystalline quartz structure with conchoidal fracture.
Identified More mineral →
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, orange to reddish-brown color, vitreous to waxy luster, microcrystalline quartz structure with conchoidal fracture.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the deposition of silica-rich solutions in cavities of volcanic and sedimentary rocks at low temperatures.
Uses & applications
Widely used in ornamental jewelry, carved into intaglios and beads, and collected as a gemstone.
Geological facts
Carnelian was highly prized in ancient civilizations like Egypt and Rome for use in royal signet rings and amulets.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its translucent reddish-orange hue and waxy luster; commonly found in India, Brazil, and the USA.
