Quick Facts on Carnelian Stones
| Chemical Formula |
: | SiO2 |
| Color |
: | Varies from Orange to Reddish Orange |
| Hardness |
: | 7 |
| Trade Names |
: | Red Chalcedony, Red Agate. |
| Specific Gravity |
: | 2.60 |
About Carnelian Stone
Carnelian stones or Cornelian stones are translucent and their
colors vary from orange to reddish orange. Some of these stones have
a dark brownish orange shade. Although, these stones are found in
different shapes, but the most usual shape is the oval shape. The
stone is the micro-crystalline form of Quartz. The name "Cornelian"
was given after the color of the kornel cherry.
Appearance of Cornelian
These red, reddish-brown, or orange colored semi-precious stones
have been appreciated for many centuries. The color is due to the
deposition of iron impurities on the stone. The color shade of this
beautiful stone varies from deep red to light red. The stone is
generally heated or dyed to produce the glittering red color.
Deposition of Carnelian Stone
The deposition of beautiful Cornelian gemstones is mainly found in
the desert regions of Arabia and Egypt. Some parts of India, Rio
Grande also have the deposits of this stone. Some other countries
where this stone is found are Colombia, Saxony, USA, China, Scotland
and West Germany. Beautiful imitations of cornelian stone is also
being done internationally by the staining of agate. This method of
making imitation of this stone has helped in making attractive
jewelry and decorative pieces with lesser expenses.