mineral
Tumbled carnelian
Carnelian, a reddish-orange variety of chalcedony (microcrystalline quartz, SiO₂)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectTranslucent brownish-orange, polished with a waxy to vitreous luster; hardness 6.5–7 Mohs, trigonal quartz structure, no visible cleavage. The small rounded specimen appears consistent with carnelian, though color alone cannot confirm the variety.
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Physical properties
Translucent brownish-orange, polished with a waxy to vitreous luster; hardness 6.5–7 Mohs, trigonal quartz structure, no visible cleavage. The small rounded specimen appears consistent with carnelian, though color alone cannot confirm the variety.
Formation & geological history
Silica-rich fluids deposited quartz in rock cavities, with iron impurities producing the warm color; such deposits formed in many geological periods and settings.
Uses & applications
Commonly cut and polished for beads, cabochons, decorative objects, and inexpensive jewelry.
Geological facts
Carnelian is a historic gemstone used in seals and ornaments since antiquity.
Field identification & locations
Look for translucent orange-red chalcedony, often with subtle banding; it occurs in volcanic cavities and sedimentary deposits worldwide, including India, Brazil, and Uruguay. A simple field test is hardness: it can scratch glass, but testing may damage a polished piece.
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