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Carnelian
Main Deposits
The main Carneola deposits are found in Brazil, Madagascar, China, Germany and the United States.
Description and Characteristics
Carnelian is of volcanic origin and owes its colour to the presence of iron oxides, which give it its characteristic reddish hue. In nature, carnelian occurs in small nodules which, when split open, reveal the microcrystalline texture of orange quartz. Once a section of agate has been polished, growth lines can be seen, with the agate taking on different shades of colour. Carnelian is a variety of chalcedony and belongs to the oxide group, with the formula SiO2. It belongs to the trigonal crystal system.
| Chemical Formula | $$SiO_{2}$$ |
|---|---|
| Luster | Vitreous |
| Streak | White |
| Fracture | Conchoid |
| Cleavage | Null |
| Hardness | 7 Mohs |
| Crystal System | Trigonal |
Did you know...?
The name ‘carnelian’ derives from the Latin word ‘carnis’, meaning ‘flesh’, due to its reddish-orange colour.
In ancient Egypt, the Egyptians called it ‘the setting sun’ and believed it helped souls on their journey to the afterlife. According to tradition, the Prophet Muhammad wore a silver ring set with a carnelian.
In ancient Egypt, the Egyptians called it ‘the setting sun’ and believed it helped souls on their journey to the afterlife. According to tradition, the Prophet Muhammad wore a silver ring set with a carnelian.
New-Age Properties
Carnelian is a high-energy stabilizing mineral, excellent for restoring vitality and motivation while stimulating creativity.
Psychologically, it helps you accept the cycle of life and dissolve the fear of death. It instills courage, dispels apathy, and motivates you to succeed in business.
It helps you trust yourself and your perceptions, mentally improves analytical abilities and clarifies perception, and during meditation, helps to withdraw erratic thoughts.
Emotionally, it helps protect against envy, anger, and resentment that someone may have toward you, while calming your anger and dispelling negativity within you.
The best way to wear or position carnelian is as a pendant or on a belt buckle. If that's not possible, wear it on the most appropriate part of the body to perform its function.
Psychologically, it helps you accept the cycle of life and dissolve the fear of death. It instills courage, dispels apathy, and motivates you to succeed in business.
It helps you trust yourself and your perceptions, mentally improves analytical abilities and clarifies perception, and during meditation, helps to withdraw erratic thoughts.
Emotionally, it helps protect against envy, anger, and resentment that someone may have toward you, while calming your anger and dispelling negativity within you.
The best way to wear or position carnelian is as a pendant or on a belt buckle. If that's not possible, wear it on the most appropriate part of the body to perform its function.
Uses of Carnelian
Carnelian is commonly used for decorative purposes and for jewelry (rings, bracelets, pendants...).