CARNELIAN

Carnelian semi-precious gemstone is a microcrystalline form of Chaledony which is in turn a form of the Quartz mineral. Quartz deposits are extremely abundant throughout the world however the most reknowned mineral deposit sites for Carnelian are India, Brazil and Japan.

Its red colour comes from deposits of iron oxide. The best Carnelian can be sourced from India where it is placed in the sun to alter brown tints to a more red colour.

Carnelian can vary in colour from peach/lemon hues through rich oranges to deep reds, the deeper the colour generally the more expensive it is.

Just like the earlier reference to Haematite, Carnelian was also prized by the Ancient Egyptians & used sometimes as the amulet in the shape of the heart known as ‘ab’. These amulets were placed on the neck of the mummy.

Carnelian can be faceted into round beads and rectangles. It can also be carved into many beautiful shapes including hearts, butterflies, pumpkins, leaves, flowers and even dragons! Carnelian carvings make great focal beads for pendants whilst the smaller beads add stunning colour to bracelets and bead necklaces.

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