gemstone

Orange chalcedony (likely tumbled or naturally water-worn)

Chalcedony, microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂), orange variety possibly carnelian

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Translucent honey-orange body, waxy to vitreous luster, cryptocrystalline quartz with no visible cleavage; Mohs hardness 6.5–7, specific gravity about 2.6. The rough, pitted surface suggests natural weathering or incomplete polishing.

Identified September 20, 2026More gemstone →

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At a glance

Common name: Orange chalcedony (likely tumbled or naturally water-worn)
Scientific name: Chalcedony, microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂), orange variety possibly carnelian
Category: gemstone
Identified: September 20, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $2–$20 for a small rough or tumbled piece; $20–$100+ for attractive polished cabochons or larger, well-colored specimens.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich groundwater deposits microcrystalline quartz in cavities, fractures, or vesicles, commonly in volcanic rocks; coloration comes from iron oxides. Deposits range from Paleozoic to recent, depending on locality.

Uses & applications

Used for cabochons, beads, carvings, ornaments, and lapidary specimens; durable but less valuable than transparent faceted quartz.

Geological facts

If distinctly reddish-orange and relatively uniform, it may be called carnelian; paler honey-orange material is generally orange chalcedony. Strong translucency at the edges is characteristic.

Field identification & locations

Test with a steel file or quartz reference cautiously; it should resist scratching by steel and may scratch ordinary glass. Common sources include Brazil, Uruguay, India, Madagascar, Mexico, and the western United States.