Carnelian

Maryland Agate

Cornelian necklace BM GR1897.4-1.623

Indus carnelian beads with white design imported to Susa in 2600-1700 BCE LOUVRE Sb 13099

Egyptian - Necklace - Walters 571515 - Detail F

Carnelian is a brownish-red mineral that is commonly used as a semi-precious gemstone. Similar to agate, carnelian is a variety of the silica mineral chalcedony colored by impurities of iron oxide. The color can vary greatly, ranging from pale orange to an intense almost-black coloration. It is known for its beautiful luster and is often used in jewelry making.

Properties and Formation

Carnelian is formed when silica solutions deposit in cavities within rocks, a process that can take millions of years. The presence of iron oxide in the silica gives carnelian its distinctive reddish hue. The hardness of carnelian on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness is between 6 and 7, which makes it durable enough for use in various types of jewelry.

Historical Significance

Carnelian has been used since ancient times. The ancient Egyptians valued it as a source of vitality and fertility. It was also believed to assist the soul on its journey to the afterlife, and carnelian amulets were often placed in tombs as magic armor for life after death. In Ancient Rome, carnelian was used for engraving to create seals, as the hot wax used to seal documents did not stick to carnelian. Its use spans various cultures and continents, from Europe to Asia, where it was used in decorative arts and as a protective talisman.

Cultural and Metaphysical Beliefs

In metaphysical beliefs, carnelian is associated with bold energy, warmth, and a joy that lingers as much as it empowers and stimulates. It is believed to promote courage, positive life choices, dispel apathy, and motivate for success in business and other matters. Carnelian is also associated with the sacral chakra, which is the center of gravity of the body and is believed to be the core of creativity, passion, and kinetic energy.

Uses

Beyond its use in jewelry, carnelian has been used in a variety of decorative objects. In the past, it was commonly used for cameos and intaglios. Today, it is also popular in bead making and as an ornamental stone in various decorative items.

Care and Maintenance

Carnelian can be cleaned using warm soapy water and a soft brush. It is important to avoid harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, as these can damage the stone. Being relatively hard, carnelian is resistant to scratches, but it should still be stored separately from other jewelry to avoid potential damage.

See Also

• Gemstone
• Mineral
• Chalcedony
• Agate
• Mohs scale of mineral hardness

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