Carnelian Gemstone History
Carnelian is a member of the microcrystalline quartz family and is found in nearly all parts of the world. Since natural coloring is caused by iron oxide, most naturally colored carnelian is found in India where it’s usually exposed to the sun, and thus, the sun enhances the colors. Carnelian is a reddish-orange to brown in color. Most often it is heat treated to produce the rich colors.
It has a hardness value of 6.5-7.0. It polishes up very well and is resistant to scratches. It’s often used for cabochons and cameos. It is used for carving and for beads. It’s a fairly inexpensive stone.
Carnelian is an alternative birthstone for July and the birthstone and a lucky charm for the astrological sign of Virgo.
This stone is believed to calm fears about death and dying, increase ambition and drive, inspire courage and confidence and protect the wearer from negative emotions. It’s said to bring about emotional warmth, sociability, and individuality. Some believe it helps with creativity and memory. Still others swear it causes a greater appreciation of nature and even brings them into harmony with it. This stone has been known to bring about happiness, confidence, and restore self-esteem. It’s also useful for enhancing creative abilities in areas of acting and writing and helps to pull out hidden talents.
Healing properties are believed plentiful with this stone. People say it cleanses the blood and removes toxins from the body, helping the liver, pancreas, kidneys and gall bladder. Carnelian is also said to aid the reproductive system, calm menstrual cramps and even help with arthritis pain.
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