Carnelian is a well-known variety of massive quartz (i.e. chalcedony), which has been colored reddish-orange to reddish-brown by the presence of iron oxide impurities within the crystal structure.
Named after the similarly-colored fruits of the cornel cherry tree, carnelian has been used within decorative items for over five thousand years and is one of several red gemstones that has historically been referred to under the catch-all term of “carbuncle” when in cabochon form. As molten wax does not stick to it, the Romans also commonly fashioned the material into cameo or intaglio forms for use within signet seal rings.
Carnelian’s name is sometimes used interchangeably with that of a closely-related brown variety of chalcedony known as sard but can be differentiated visually by its lighter, more reddish hue and a greater degree of translucency. In addition, sard tends to be slightly harder and tougher of the two materials.
Characteristics of Carnelian
- Hardness: 6 – 7
- Transparency: Translucent
- Chemical composition: SiO2
- Crystal system: Trigonal
History of Carnelian
The Sunset Stone of Carnelian was named so by the Ancient Egyptians who marveled at the collection of fiery hues simmering in shades of burnt orange and pale pink. Just like a killer sunset, the Carnelian Stone is something of a soul stirrer, ever ready to cleanse away the day and re-invigorate your strength with the promise of something new.
In ancient times, the orange Carnelian stone has taken up the mantle of many roles. The Egyptians considered the Orange Carnelian to be blessed with feminine energy and the menstrual cycle, it was a stone of fertility and linked to the power of Isis. The masculine Red Carnelian was said to be more active in its power and less about shedding the old and embracing the fiery energy of the new. It was there to stimulate love and passion. Warriors would string Carnelian around their neck to give them courage in battle.
Out of Ancient Egypt and into the Middle Ages and Carnelian became a stone of alchemy. The wizened ones would boil up the bright autumnal energy to kickstart the powers of other chalcedony stones. It was also beloved by architects and worn to symbolize status in society. With its protective fires, Carnelian was also used as a preventative against sickness and the plague. Further cementing its lore as a stone that brings out the longevity of life and the fighting spirit. The name of Carnelian comes from the Latin word meaning ‘flesh’ which perhaps speaks to its reminder that we are flesh and blood and we should make the most of the here and now.
Carnelian has been found on the shores of Brazil, India, Egypt, Uruguay, and the Amazon. In its earthly shades, it has captured desert storms, jungle sunsets, and golden stone. It is here with its fire to breathe life back into those who are lagging and to ensure that your confidence and personal power has the space to soar. Let’s delve a little deeper into the kiss of Carnelian.
Meaning of Carnelian
Like all fire stones, Carnelian infuses the body with life and light calling on the powers of physical energy. It’s all about stimulating the muscles, helping oxygen to find its free flow, and keeping your tissues and organs flushed with the finest health. For anyone out there who may be in a bind when it comes to their sexual energy, Carnelian may be able to help. This stone stirs up fertility and even for those not wanting to go down that path, it can be an amazing aid in giving your libido a boost and helping you to fully step into the fire of your own sexual identity and power.
Those who suffer from lower back problems or rheumatism will also find Carnelian properties a kiss of relief. The warm vibrations seep through, bringing healing to bones and ligaments and helping you to feel loose and limber rather than stiff and cold. Carnelian also brings a detoxifying flush to those who may be in a battle with alcohol, drugs, and other stimulants that don’t serve your overall health and wondrous wellbeing.
For those who need a few more flames in their fire, Carnelian is always keen to bring out your power. The Carnelian crystal is all about gifting a glut of vitality to those who are feeling a little lost and sluggish. This bright burst of energy will get you back on your feet and feeling the drive to go forth and conquer, especially when it comes to creative projects. It isn’t called The Artist’s Stone for no reason, Carnelian invites you to write, paint, dance and sing and it does so, by stimulating warmth and heat, loosening the limbs, letting energy flow, and encouraging you to embrace your inner child and say a sweet yes to spontaneity.
When you let our creative juices go wild, this gives you a whole new lease of life and keeps you feeling motivated and confident now that you have been able to step out of the shadows. If you have been holding on tight to anger or reigning yourself in, this is the time to let it all go. New fires are burning so leave those bitter embers well alone. Forever and a day, Carnelian was considered to be a stone that helped timid speakers to raise their vocals. This is where it also earns its name as The Singers Stone. Even if you cannot hold a note, bringing Carnelian into your life will ensure that your voice always rings true and you never have to bite your tongue again. When we are able to lift up our voice, the soul follows.
Like many orange healing stones, Carnelian is connected to the three lower chakras. The Root Chakra is the foundation of all our chakras, it’s where our safety sits and keeps us grounded to the world that holds us. If the Root Chakra is blocked, it may feel like you are totally off balance and that you live life constantly feeling on edge and in a place of insecurity. When this chakra is in flow you know you can take emotional risks in life because the center will always hold.
The Sacral Chakra is where our passion, intimacy, and the inner fire sits. If yours is blocked you may feel that you struggle to connect and that joy almost seems impossible to find. Carnelian awakens this zest for life, letting the energy flow through from the ground to the naval. The final chakra connected to Carnelian is the Solar Plexus Chakra, the place where our personal power burns. This is the center of our self-esteem and where our warrior spirit sits in wait. If your Solar Plexus isn’t flowing then you may feel as though there’s no fight left in you. Fear not, Carnelian is here to call that warrior into action.
Care Instruction
Keeping your Carnelian talisman cleansed and charged is the best way to bring out its inner light and make the most of its power. Carnelian likes to be cleaned in the simplest fashion with just a little warm and soapy water. Washing your crystals regularly ensures that they are able to shake off any negative energy they may be holding and leaves them wide open and clear so they are able to transmute all they have to give without being blocked. Carnelian is also known for helping to cleanse other stones in your collection, so you can use it as a stacker to soak up the negative energy of your other crystals.