Carnelian
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Physical & Optical Properties
Category
Semi-Precious Gems
Mohs Hardness
6.5 – 7.0
Specific Gravity
2.58 – 2.64
Refractive Index
1.535 – 1.539
Crystal System
Trigonal
Luster
Waxy,Resinous
Cleavage
None
Fracture
Uneven
Color
red
Birefringence
0.003
Pleochroism
Absent
Mohs Hardness
Mohs Hardness: 6.5 – 7.0
1 Soft10 Hard
Crystal System
Value & Market
Price Tier
Moderate ($50-500/ct)
Where to Buy Carnelian
Blue Nile
Fine jewelry retailer
James Allen
Gemstone jewelry
Brilliant Earth
Ethically sourced gems
Amazon
Wide selection
Links may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Cultural Significance
Birthstone Month
7 (alternative)
Treatments
The colour can be enhanced by heating. - Gemstones of the world, Walter Schumann, 2001, p 126
Most carnelians offered today are agates which are dyed and then heat-treated. - Gemstones of the world, Walter Schumann, 2001, p 126
6.5 to 7Herve Nicolas Lazzarelli, Blue Chart Gem Identification (2010)
2.58 to 2.64Walter Schumann, Gemstones of the world (2001) More from other references
NoneWalter Schumann, Gemstones of the world (2001)
UnevenWalter Schumann, Gemstones of the world (2001)
1.535 to 1.539Herve Nicolas Lazzarelli, Blue Chart Gem Identification (2010)
Uniaxial/+Ulrich Henn and Claudio C. Milisenda, Gemmological Tables (2004)
0.003 to 0.009Herve Nicolas Lazzarelli, Blue Chart Gem Identification (2010)
AbsentWalter Schumann, Gemstones of the world (2001)
NoneWalter Schumann, Gemstones of the world (2001)
Red, orange, reddishGemdat.org, Management Team (2012)
Orange to red, submicroscopic to microscopic inclusions of hydrous Fe oxidesW. William Hanneman, Pragmatic Spectroscopy For Gemologists (2011)
Translucent,OpaqueHerve Nicolas Lazzarelli, Blue Chart Gem Identification (2010) Semi-transparent to opaque
Waxy,ResinousArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009)
Blue-whiteWalter Schumann, Gemstones of the world (2001)
TrigonalUlrich Henn and Claudio C. Milisenda, Gemmological Tables (2004)
Fibrous to grained aggregateUlrich Henn and Claudio C. Milisenda, Gemmological Tables (2004)
Carnelian information at mindat.org
Peru
Sri Lanka
About Carnelian
Carnelian is a translucent orange to red-orange variety of chalcedony colored by iron oxide inclusions, prized since antiquity for engraved intaglios, seals, and amulets across ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia, and Rome. Its warm, glowing color and excellent translucency when backlit make it one of the most visually appealing semi-precious stones. India is the world's primary source, where carnelian is heated to enhance its color before being exported worldwide.
Compare With
Jewelry Use
Durability
6/10
Science FYI Family
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Carnelian?
Carnelian is a translucent orange to red-orange variety of chalcedony colored by iron oxide inclusions, prized since antiquity for engraved intaglios, seals, and amulets across ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia, and Rome. Its warm, glowing color and excellent translucency when backlit make it one of the mo
What is the hardness of Carnelian?
Carnelian has a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7.0, making it moderate for use in jewelry.
What color is Carnelian?
Carnelian is primarily Red.
How much does Carnelian cost?
Carnelian falls into the Moderate ($50-500/ct) price range. Prices vary based on color, clarity, cut, and origin.
Is Carnelian a birthstone?
Yes, Carnelian is the July birthstone (alternative).