mineral

Raw Carnelian

Quartz (Chalcedony) - SiO2 with Fe2O3 inclusions

Hardness: 6.5 - 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Reddish-orange to brownish-red. Luster: Waxy to vitreous. Crystal structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline/cryptocrystalline chalcedony). Cleavage: None, exhibits conchoidal fracture.

Hardness: 6
Color: Reddish-orange to brownish-red
Luster: Waxy to vitreous

Identified July 26, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed at low temperatures through the precipitation of silica-rich solutions in cavities, veins, and gas bubbles (vesicles) within volcanic and sedimentary rocks. Coloration is caused by iron oxide (hematite) impurities.

Uses & applications

Used in lapidary arts, jewelry (cabochons, beads, carved intaglios), decorative carvings, and as a popular collectible gemstone.

Geological facts

Carnelian has been used for ornamentation for over 4,500 years, notably in Ancient Egypt where it was worn by royalty as a symbol of life and vitality, and in ancient Roman signet rings.

Field identification & locations

Identified in the field by its distinctive warm orange-to-red translucency, waxy surface, and hardness (scratches glass). Widely found in Brazil, India, Madagascar, Uruguay, and parts of the western United States.

Other mineral specimens

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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Soil with Mineral Detritus and Quartz Fragments

Regolith / Silicate Mineral Aggregate

sedimentary

Limonite / Goethite (Iron Ore Mineral nodule)

FeO(OH)·nH2O / FeO(OH)

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Schist

Metamorphic

Septarian Pebble

Septarian nodule / Concretion

sedimentary

Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)

Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)

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