Carnelian, also called cornelian, is a translucent, semiprecious variety of the silica mineral chalcedony that owes its red to reddish brown colour to colloidally dispersed hematite (iron oxide). It is a close relative of sard, differing only in the shade of red. Carnelian was highly valued and used in rings and signets by the Greeks and Romans, some of whose intaglios have retained their high polish better than many harder stones. Carnelian’s colour is enhanced by baking and dyeing with iron salts. Chief localities are Ratnapura, India; Campo de Maia, Brazil; and Warwick, Queens, Australia. Its physical properties are those of quartz. Continue reading from Encyclopedia Britannica
Carnelian is believed to be named after the red-orange Kornel cherry. Artifacts using carnelian date back to the Bronze Age circa 1800 BC on the island of Crete. Carnelian was believed by the Romans to be a stone of courage--able to shore up confidence and strength. In ancient Egypt, the stone was placed on mummies to assist the dead in their journey to the afterlife while architects to the pharaohs wore carnelian to denote rank and status. In the Middle Ages, carnelian was used by alchemists when boiling stone to release the energy of other gemstones.
Carnelian is the birthstone for the zodiac sign of Virgo (August 23 - September 22). For most cultures, from the 15th to the 20th century, carnelian was one of four birthstones for August. In 1912, the United States adopted peridot as the August birthstone, however in 2013, Britain recognized carnelian as a secondary birthstone after ruby.
Carnelian was the stone of courage to the ancient Romans, and for the ancient Egyptians it assisted the dead in their journey to the afterlife. Learn more about the incredible history of this gemstone, it's believed properties and how to incorporate it into your jewelry designs. Continue reading from Fire Mountain Gems
Orange stones, especially the carnelians, are excellent aids for training, coordination of physical exercise programs, and balancing body energy levels. Carnelians boost a listless attitude and can stimulate the appetite.
Used as a professional support crystal, Carnelian aids architects, builders, and construction workers in their creation of master buildings, stimulates power and stamina in athletes and military personnel, establishes form and organization in journalists, and stimulates motivation in salespersons.
Carnelian is said to attract prosperity, new resources, and good luck. It is a talisman for success in any money-making venture. In the workplace, it is a crystal of ambition, drive and determination, and wards off undue pressures of co-workers or impersonal corporations with unrealistic expectations.
Carnelian clarifies the voice. It is the Singer’s Stone. It also promotes confidence for performances on stage or in live media. Carnelian is traditionally known to guard against falling masonry and accidents with tools. Today it guards the home against theft, fire, storm, or accident. Carnelian lends the courage needed to help overcome difficulties and defend a cause. It promotes idealism, a sense of community, and pragmatism.
Orange and red Carnelian are important crystals to use for love, and for the consummation of love. Orange crystals, in particular, are fertility and potency symbols and are linked with conceiving a child. Carnelian of either color may help in rekindling passions that might have faded in an otherwise loving relationship. Continue reading from Crystal Vaults
Historically speaking, crystals are touted as ancient forms of medicine, with philosophies borrowed from Hinduism and Buddhism. However, it’s important to know that there’s no scientific evidence to support the use of crystals. Despite this, people are still drawn to their colors and beauty. The key to indulging in this self-care experience is mindfulness, reflection, and acceptance. For instance, researchers found that a person’s mind may have much more healing power than it’s given credit. Continue reading from Healthline
