Carnelian

A relatively inexpensive stone, carnelian carries with it a great warmth and beauty. Though it may not carry the price tag of a diamond or ruby, it certainly shares these gemstones’ strong historical significance. While fighting in Egypt, Napoleon acquired a special carnelian stone. The prophet Mohammed reputedly used a carnelian ring as his personal seal, causing the gemstone to be greatly valued in the Muslim community.

Carnelian is a translucent form of the mineral chalcedony; a micro-crystalline variety of quartz. This gemstone is found in India, Brazil, Arabia and Uruguay. Carnelian varies in color from deep red to bright orange. The red hues in the gem are due in part to ferric oxide content.

When set in a pendant, ring, bracelet, or cameo, it exudes regality. When exposed to bright sunlight for a long time, the color of the gem changes from brown to red. Carnelian is commonly heat treated to produce a stronger color and occasionally dyed to produce a deep, long-lasting color.

A perfect accessory to party and casual wear, carnelian is a must for any jewelry collection.