Product Description
Mineral Information:
Carnelian, & its closely related cousin Sard(usually darker & harder), are a common & cheap but beautiful variety of chalcedony. Carnelian is a varied & colorful orange to red translucent stone that occasionally appears alongside other members of the quartz/chalcedony families, & calcite. When carnelian material feature b&ing shapes, it is also considered an agate. Due to its commonality, it has been used by humans as an ornamental stone since such a thing became popular, & was historically used as a healing talisman. It also has a strong connection to kingship & royalty in some middle-eastern societies, & the Prophet Mohammed was said to have worn a ring & a carnelian gem. Carnelian remains in high dem& in modern times, & it is perhaps the most popular of all the orange-red gemstone available.
Category Chalcedony variety
Formula (repeating unit) Silica (silicon dioxide, SiO2)
Crystal system Trigonal
Formula mass 60 g/mol
Color Red, orange, reddish
Cleavage Absent
Fracture Uneven, splintery, conchoidal
Mohs scale hardness 6.5 – 7.0
Luster Waxy to resinous
Streak White
Diaphaneity Translucent to opaque
Specific gravity 2.58 - 2.64
Optical properties Uniaxial +
Refractive index 1.535 to 1.539
Birefringence 0.003 to 0.009
Pleochroism None
Mineral Care:
Carnelian is fairly sturdy, making it popular for jewelry, & has no significant toxic risk factors. That said, it is not advised to drink water or food mixed & rough material.
Metaphysical Properties:
A stone associated & vitality & passion, said to motivate & inspire creativity as well as stimulate sexual desire.
Disclaimer:
No information here is intended diagnose, treat or cure ailments or afflictions of any kind. One should always consult a medical professional if a serious issue presents itself.