mineral

Orange chalcedony (likely carnelian)

Microcrystalline quartz, SiO₂; iron-bearing variety commonly called carnelian

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Small tumbled or naturally rounded orange translucent fragment with a waxy-to-glassy luster; quartz hardness is 7 Mohs, with no visible cleavage and conchoidal fracture. The orange color is caused by iron oxides or hydroxides.

Identified September 6, 2026More mineral →

Explore Orange chalcedony (likely carnelian) in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

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

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich groundwater fills cavities and fractures, later hardening as cryptocrystalline quartz; coloration develops through iron staining and oxidation. It occurs in volcanic rocks and sedimentary gravels, with deposits ranging from ancient to recent.

Uses & applications

Used for beads, cabochons, carvings, seals, and ornamental objects; small common pieces have modest collecting value.

Geological facts

Carnelian is a chalcedony variety ranging from yellow-orange to deep red-brown; heat treatment can intensify its color.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its orange-red color, translucency, smooth waxy surface, hardness, and lack of cleavage; common sources include India, Brazil, Uruguay, Madagascar, and Indonesia. This image alone cannot exclude orange glass or resin, so a hardness or refractive test is useful.