mineral

Carnelian (a variety of Chalcedony)

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with iron oxide impurities

Hardness: 6.5–7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Translucent reddish-brown to orange. Luster: Vitreous to waxy. Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (Trigonal), specifically microcrystalline. Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific Gravity: 2.58–2.64.

Hardness: 6
Color: Translucent reddish-brown to orange
Luster: Vitreous to waxy

Identified March 28, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

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

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in volcanic cavities or sedimentary environments through the deposition of silica-rich groundwater. Its reddish color comes from hematite (iron oxide) impurities during the crystallization process. It can be found in various age deposits, from ancient volcanic host rocks to modern river beds.

Uses & applications

Mostly used in jewelry (beads, cabochons, carved intaglios), spiritual healing/gemstone collecting, and historical ornamentation. Its durability makes it suitable for rings and pendants.

Geological facts

Carnelian was highly prized in ancient times; it was used for seal stones in ancient Egypt and Rome because hot wax does not stick to it. It is the birthstone for the zodiac sign of Virgo and represented the setting sun to ancient Egyptians.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its translucent warm orange-red color and waxy surface. Look for it in river gravels, desert plains, or near volcanic regions like the Lake Superior area (as Lake Superior Agate relative) or India. For collectors, use a flashlight to check for translucency; simple quartz will be more opaque or colorless.

Other mineral specimens

See all

Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Epidote

Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)

metamorphic

Nephrite Jade

Nephrite

Mineral/Rock

Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)

Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)

Metamorphic Rock

Green Apatite on Albite

Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]

mineral

Epidote

Epidote - Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)3(SiO4)3(OH)

mineral