Carnelian is supplied as a mineral material for decorative and specialty industrial use.
Carnelian is a brownish-red to orange, translucent variety of chalcedony quartz, historically prized for jewelry and talismans. Known as a stone of courage and motivation, it boasts a Mohs hardness of 7 and is often linked to the sacral and root chakras. It is primarily sourced from India, Brazil, and Madagascar.
Key Properties and Uses:
Appearance: Ranges from pale orange to deep reddish-brown, often enhanced by heat treatment.
Symbolism: Historically used for protection, courage, and vitality, including by Egyptians as a protective stone for the afterlife.
Metaphysical: Believed to boost creativity, self-confidence, and passion.
Jewelry: Popular for rings, necklaces, and beads; often featured in brands like Van Cleef & Arpels.
Physical Properties:
Composition: Silicon dioxide with iron oxide impurities.
Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale.
Care: Generally safe for water but requires care, notes The Crystal Company.
Commonly confused with sard, which is generally darker and harder.
