gemstone

Tumbled carnelian/chalcedony (probable)

Microcrystalline quartz, SiO₂; orange-red variety commonly called carnelian

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Small polished pebble with translucent orange-brown coloration, gray/white edge, and waxy-to-glassy luster. Quartz hardness is about 7 Mohs; no visible cleavage, cryptocrystalline structure, and specific gravity near 2.60–2.65.

Identified August 16, 2026More gemstone →

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At a glance

Common name: Tumbled carnelian/chalcedony (probable)
Scientific name: Microcrystalline quartz, SiO₂; orange-red variety commonly called carnelian
Category: gemstone
Identified: August 16, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $1–$10 as a small tumbled stone; $10–$30 if unusually vivid, translucent, and natural. Exact identification would benefit from close-up lighting, translucency, and a hardness or specific-gravity test.

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 or replaces material in volcanic rocks, with iron impurities producing orange-red color. Its exact geological age cannot be determined visually; the Rochester region commonly exposes glacially transported Paleozoic sedimentary-derived stones.

Uses & applications

Used for beads, cabochons, jewelry, ornamental objects, and inexpensive polished-stone collections. Common tumbled pieces typically have modest value.

Geological facts

The color can deepen after heating or dyeing, so treatment cannot be ruled out from the photograph. The specimen may also be orange jasper or sard, both closely related chalcedony varieties.

Field identification & locations

Identify with a consistent waxy luster, translucency at thin edges, lack of cleavage, and hardness sufficient to scratch ordinary glass; avoid scratching valuable surfaces. Carnelian is widespread in volcanic terrains and is often sold as imported tumbled material, so local discovery does not establish local origin.