gemstone

Orange chalcedony / carnelian

Microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂), likely iron-colored chalcedony (carnelian)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Translucent orange to salmon, waxy-to-vitreous luster, cryptocrystalline quartz with no visible cleavage; Mohs hardness 6.5–7 and specific gravity about 2.6. The rough, irregular fragment shows natural conchoidal-looking fracture surfaces.

Identified September 1, 2026More gemstone →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich groundwater fills cavities and fractures, with iron oxides producing orange-red color; commonly Cenozoic to older volcanic or sedimentary host rocks. Exact age cannot be determined from the photograph.

Uses & applications

Used for beads, cabochons, carvings, seals, and ornamental objects; attractive rough pieces are collected. Common material has modest commercial value.

Geological facts

Carnelian is a reddish-orange variety of chalcedony; paler orange material may be called orange chalcedony or sard. Color can be enhanced by heating or dyeing, though this specimen appears naturally rough.

Field identification & locations

Common in India, Brazil, Uruguay, Madagascar, Germany, Scotland, and parts of the western United States. Identify by its orange translucency, hardness, waxy luster, and lack of obvious crystal faces; glass may look similar but is generally less naturally fractured.