CHISOM IBEMERE
Carnelian is a deep red mineral used as a semi precious stone. It is similar to Sard which is harder and darker in colour. Carnelian and Sard are known varieties of Chalcedony which are affected by Iron oxide impurities.
Carnelian also known as Cornelian is a form of Quartz mineral. It’s name is derived from the latin word “Carneus” meaning “fleshy”. It has been in existence for over 4500 years ago. The Egyptians and Sumerian makes Jewelries from it. Romans and Greeks uses it for Intaglios as it is greatly valued by them. They are used in beauty industries for face rollers.
Carnelian is not too an expensive stone and are majorly used in the making of Cabochons, beads and Cameos. It’s colours varies from reddish Orange, yellow, brown and pink colours. It’s different colouration is as a result of the level of Iron oxide available in each of the stones. It may have bands of colours or be uniform. It has a mohs hardness of 6.5 and may be transparent.
Carnelian formation is from the intergrowth of two silica minerals bearing different crystal structures. It is formed within volcanic lava or Igneous rocks. Hot molten magma moves to the earth surface and cools. As the cooling takes place, it begins to solidify thereby removing some gas bubbles. With time, the fluids form crystals which are affected by pressure, temp and impurities, which may lead to the formation of Carnelian. Carnelian after formation are later mined by alluvial miners millions of years after. Some Carnelian may be found by digging into the ground.
Orange Carnelian originated from India and mainly for commercial purposes. It is now mined all over the world.