Carnelian

Image used with permission from
Dad's Rock Shop

Carnelian is a member of the quartz family known as chalcedony and can be found in almost every part of the world, such as India, Uruguay, and Brazil. Its color can range from a pale peach orange or pink to a deep reddish-brown orange, the color is caused by the presence of iron oxide. The word carnelian is derived from the Latin word caro, carnis meaning flesh, in reference to the flesh color sometimes exhibited.

Romans believed Carnelian was a stone of courage that could shore up strength and confidence. Ancient Egyptians placed carnelian on mummies to assist them in their journey to the afterlife. It was also one of the stones inlaid in the mask of King Tutankhamen. Carnelian was once worn in cameos because it was believed to ward off depression and insanity.

Some believe that Carnelian in the home will protect against fire and misfortune. Some spiritualists say that Carnelian can assist people in finding the right mate and protect the wearer from anger, jealousy, and fear. Some claim that Carnelian will help to balance creativity and mental processing, and on this note, it is also supposed to aid daydreamers and the absent-minded.




Glossary