Carnelian has a reputation as a lucky gemstone and this reputation stretches back to the dawn of civilization as this gemstone is one of our oldest friends - much loved in Ancient Egypt, Rome and Greece.

Carnelian Colors

The presence of iron gives carnelian its orange glow and this color can range from golden yellow all the way to an almost red tone.

Read more about gemstones colors here

Carnelian Stone Species

Carnelian is a type of chalcedony which in turn is a kind of quartz.

It shares similar chemical combinations and crystal make-up with many other gemstones types that are differentiated by either color or stripes and patterns. These include:

• Jasper
• Agate
• Sardonyx
• Bloodstone

Natural Carnelian Price

Although they are very attractive, spiritually powerful and full of historical importance, Carnelian for sale are very affordable.

The Carnelian prices are dictated by the color with bright reddish orange hues being the most sought after.

Carnelian - Carat Weight

Carnelian gemstones tend to weigh less than 10 carats and are basically the same price per carat no matter the size.

The redder the color of the Carnelian the better the price and gemstones that are more translucent will glow that much brighter and fetch a higher value.

Reddish stones will range from $3 to $25 per carat while lighter orange colors will be a little less, say $2 - $15 per carat.

For more details please refer to our full Carnelian Info page here

Carnelian Treatments

Most Carnelian gemstones are untreated as the cost of expensive treatments is not worth the time and effort for such a reasonably priced gemstone but plain colored agate or light colored chalcedony can be turned into Carnelian after a few processes.

Any gemstone with as long a history as Carnelian will have been subject to a lot of experimentation as far as treatments are concerned. Heating and dyeing are the most obvious ways of altering or enhancing the color.

The treatments do tend to be permanent and stable but rest assured any gemstones we sell with treatments will be fully disclosed on our product pages.

Where is Carnelian found?

India was, and still is, the foremost supplier of Carnelian but Brazil, Uruguay and Madagascar are also big producers.

What jewelry is Carnelian suitable for?

Carnelian is rated at 7 on Mohs hardness scale which makes it strong enough for all jewelry items including daily wear pieces.

Carnelian is often shaped into cabochons - with flat bottoms and domed tops - which are ideal for classic or bohemian jewelry designs.

Birthstones and Anniversaries

Carnelian is a traditional birthstone for August and is an alternative birthstone for July in the UK.

Carnelian is a traditional wedding gift to celebrate the 17th wedding anniversary.