gemstone

Tumbled carnelian

Carnelian, orange-red chalcedony (microcrystalline quartz, SiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness 6.5–7 Mohs; translucent honey-brown to reddish-orange color, waxy/glassy luster, cryptocrystalline structure, and no visible cleavage. The smooth rounded shape indicates tumbling and polishing.

Identified August 11, 2026More gemstone →

Explore Tumbled carnelian 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 deposits chalcedony in cavities and fractures, with iron producing the warm color; deposits range from Paleozoic to Cenozoic. Common sources include India, Brazil, Uruguay, Madagascar, and Germany.

Uses & applications

Used for beads, cabochons, carvings, seals, and ornamental objects; durable enough for jewelry. Small tumbled pieces have modest collector value.

Geological facts

Carnelian is a variety of chalcedony and may deepen in color with heating or prolonged sunlight. It can resemble dyed agate or orange jasper.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its orange-brown translucent body, even color, waxy luster, and quartz hardness; it should scratch glass but not be scratched by a steel knife. A gemological test is needed to distinguish natural from dyed material.