mineral

Tumbled carnelian (likely)

Orange-red chalcedony, microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness 6.5–7 Mohs; translucent orange-brown color, waxy to vitreous luster, cryptocrystalline structure, and no visible cleavage. The smooth surface indicates tumbling or polishing; darker spots may be iron-oxide inclusions.

Identified August 11, 2026More mineral →

Explore Tumbled carnelian (likely) 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, with iron producing the orange-red color; it is commonly associated with volcanic rocks and deposits ranging from ancient to recent. Exact locality and age cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Used for beads, cabochons, carvings, seals, and ornamental objects; attractive pieces have modest collector value.

Geological facts

Carnelian is a variety of chalcedony and grades into sard, which is typically darker brown-red. Color may be enhanced by heating or dyeing.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its uniform waxy translucence, absence of cleavage, and glass-scratching hardness; a steel file should not easily scratch genuine chalcedony. Common sources include India, Brazil, Uruguay, Madagascar, and Germany.