Carnelian

Overview
a reddish-orange, or reddish-brown colored gemstone from the Quartz family. It has a warm, uniform, and easily distinguishable color. Carnelian is found all over the world, but it is said the best comes form India. It is also found in various parts of the United States.

About the Stone

Carnelian sits at a 6.5 - 7 on the Mohs scale (somewhere between Iron Pyrite and Quartz).It is a member of the Quartz family. Carnelian is derived from the Latin word meaning horn. Carnelian is also spelled ‘cornelian’ and has also been referred to as Mecca Stone, Pigeon’s blood Agate, and Sadoine.

The best quality Carnelian is found in India but it is also found in many other parts of the world including Uruguay, Brazil, Japan, Botswana, and Madagascar. In the United States, Carnelian can be found in Texas, North Carolina, Colorado, and Florida.

Carnelian is sometimes listed as a birthstone for August and the astrological sign Virgo.

Metaphysical Properties

Carnelian is, among other things, believed to remind us to be “in the moment”. Carnelian is supposed to be particularly good for those persons born in August. Here are a few of the other metaphysical properties of this unique gemstone:

• Carnelian is supposed to protect the wearer from anger, jealousy, and fear.
• It calms fears about death, dying, and rebirth and brings serenity.
• Carnelian gives courage to people who are timid or have a weak voice.
• Carnelian is supposed to have a mental grounding power.
• It is supposed to help the wearer develop a deeper appreciation for their body, and cultivate a better connection with friends and lovers
• Carnelian has been said to help lessen feelings of guilt
• Carnelian is supposed to help in healing problems in the lower abdomen, such as impotence, menstrual cramps, and infertility.

Carnelian was supposedly worn by Muhammad in a silver ring, which he also used as his personal seal.

Carnelian in Jewelry

Carnelian is often found in antique jewelry and provides a perfect surface for engraving.. It has a warm, uniform color and is relatively inexpensive. Carnelian is usually fashioned in a cabochon cut and accents especially well on silver. Its translucency is especially apparent in pedants, and it is how many people prefer to wear this beautiful gemstone. Carnelian sits very well with fall colors.