Carnelian

Carnelian is a July birthstone and the Zodiac birthstone for the signs of Leo and Virgo.

Carnelian has been prized throughout history for its protective qualities and carved carnelian amulets and charms were popular with many ancient cultures. In the early Neolithic period, beads were made from carnelian. In Ancient Egypt, carnelian was closely associated with the sun god, Re, and often used in jewellery. It was especially popular during Roman times in making marriage and seal rings.

Today the finest gems are found in Brazil, Uruguay, India and Madagascar.

Spiritual & Health Benefits

Carnelian embodies courage, endurance, motivation and leadership. It is said to give protection from negative energy and poverty and support cohesion within a community as well as idealism and pragmatism.
Physical Characteristics

Composed of tiny quartz crystals that cannot be seen with an unaided eye, carnelian is a type of chalcedony.

Like other types of chalcedony, it has a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale. With its lack of cleavage, good durability and wide availability, it is a popular and affordable gem.

Carnelian is a glassy, translucent stone, with shades ranging from pale orange to reddish brown. Usually solid in colour, it can contain lighter and darker zones. It is usually cut as cabochons or beads or carved into cameos.