gemstone

Orange chalcedony or carnelian fragment

Microcrystalline quartz, SiO₂; carnelian is orange cryptocrystalline quartz colored mainly by iron oxides

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically Mohs hardness 6.5–7, translucent to opaque, orange-red, with a waxy to vitreous luster and no visible cleavage; conchoidal fracture is common. The angular piece appears roughly knapped or naturally fractured, though the image is insufficient for certainty.

Identified August 28, 2026More gemstone →

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At a glance

Common name: Orange chalcedony or carnelian fragment
Scientific name: Microcrystalline quartz, SiO₂; carnelian is orange cryptocrystalline quartz colored mainly by iron oxides
Category: gemstone
Identified: August 28, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $1–$10 for a small rough fragment; $10–$50 or more for attractive, natural, well-colored cabochon-grade material.

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 fills cavities and fractures, later depositing cryptocrystalline quartz; iron oxidation produces the orange-red color. Chalcedony occurs in volcanic rocks and sedimentary environments, generally ranging from Paleozoic to recent formations.

Uses & applications

Used for beads, cabochons, carvings, seals, and ornamental objects; lower-grade material is inexpensive and decorative.

Geological facts

Carnelian is the orange-red variety of chalcedony, while paler orange material may be called orange chalcedony. Color can be enhanced by heating or dyeing.

Field identification & locations

Common sources include India, Brazil, Uruguay, Madagascar, and the United States. Field clues are hardness, waxy luster, uniform fine texture, and conchoidal fracture; glass can look similar but often shows bubbles or sharper vitreous luster.