Geology / History
Carnelian is a cryptocrystalline variety of quartz, commonly used as a semi-precious gemstone. Probably named after the colour of the kornel cherry. It is a brownish red to orange, translucent to opaque Chalcedony variety. Coloured by impurities of iron oxide, the colour can vary greatly, ranging from pale orange to an intense almost-black coloration. When held against the light, the colour variety shows stripes, natural carnelian shows a cloudy distribution of colour.
Metaphysical Properties
Grounds & anchors you in the present reality. This wealth stone is an excellent purifier it removes negativity & strengthens life force. Gives you an acceptance of the cycle of life. It stimulates courage & motivates for success in business.
Helps to trust yourself. Powerful protection against greed, envy, resentment. Calms anger. Place near your front door for protection & invites abundance in. Improves parent – child relationships, restores trust after abuse.
Crystal Healing
Stimulates metabolism, female reproductive organ, overcomes frigidity & impotence. Heals rheumatism, arthritis, neuralgia & depression. Regulates body fluids, kidneys. Improves absorption of vitamins.
Mineralogy
Group: Quartz (Silicate-Tectosilicate)
Crystal System: Hexagonal, Trigonal
Composition: SiO2
Form/Habit: Massive, Microcrystalline
Hardness: 7
Cleavage: None
Fracture: Uneven
Lustre: Waxy to Dull
Streak: White
Specific Gravity: 2.7
Transparency: Translucent
R.I: 1.535-1.539
Colour: Orange to red
Causes of Colour: submicroscopic to microscopic inclusions of hydrous Iron oxides
Birefringence: 0.003-0.009
Pleochroism: Absent
Fluorescence: Blue/White