Carnelian

Energy • Activation • Vitality • Feminine Energy • Life Cycle • Grounding

Energetic properties

Carnelian is grounding, activating, and energizing. It boosts self-confidence and has a positive effect on depression and confusion. The stone promotes resilience and helpfulness, attracts success, and supports problem-solving. It also strengthens the connection to feminine energy, enhances the absorption of vitamins, nutrients, and minerals, and stimulates metabolism. Carnelian encourages acceptance of the cycle of life, helps release fear of death, and supports making positive life choices. It also helps build trust in yourself and your perceptions.

Suitable for children from around 4 years old.

Formation

Carnelian is a brownish-red to orange variety of chalcedony (a microcrystalline form of quartz), primarily composed of microcrystalline silica. It typically forms in rocks where layers rich in silicon dioxide are exposed to low pressure and high temperatures over a long period. These conditions transform the silica into carnelian.

It can also form in hydrothermal veins and is found in both sedimentary and metamorphic rocks. The mineral is often associated with silica-rich sedimentary stones such as siliceous sandstone, chert and agate.

Etymology

The name carnelian comes from the Latin word 'carneus', meaning 'flesh-colored', referencing its warm, reddish tone reminiscent of flesh.

Care

Carnelian is relatively hard and durable and doesn’t require special care. It can be cleaned under running water and gently patted dry with a soft cloth. It may also be cleansed and recharged using sage, incense or moonlight.

Because carnelian is somewhat porous, it may discolor or become damaged if exposed to harsh chemicals such as cleaning products or perfumes.

Origin

Can be found in many places around the world, including Brazil, India, Madagascar, Uruguay, and the United States. In Europe, it can also be found in the Czech Republic and Germany.

Availability

Carnelian is relatively common and widely available. However, some varieties are rarer and may be more valuable.

Properties

Composition: SiO₂
Hardness: 6-7
Density: 2.6

Associated with Carnelian