# Carnelian

> Carnelian is a translucent orange-red chalcedony (6.5-7 on Mohs), used for millennia in seals, intaglios and beads.

- Source: https://www.711grados.com/en/carnelian/
- Language: en
- Note: This entry was drafted with the help of AI and is pending review by the author.
- Published: 2026-06-17
- Updated: 2026-06-17
- Translation (es): https://www.711grados.com/es/cornalina/
- Author: Sandra Sánchez
- Site: 711 Grados (https://www.711grados.com/)

---

Carnelian is red, orange or reddish-brown chalcedony, translucent with a warm glow. It was already carved in Mesopotamia and Egypt, and was a favorite stone for seals and cameos.

## Properties

- **Composition:** silicon dioxide (chalcedony) with iron.
- **Hardness:** 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale.
- **Color:** orange-red, orange and reddish brown.
- **Origins:** India, Brazil and Uruguay.
- **Treatments:** heated to intensify the color.

## Uses in jewelry

- Intaglios and seals ([see seals](https://www.711grados.com/en/seals-in-jewelry/)).
- Cabochons, beads and rings.
- Ethnic and antique jewelry.

## Pros and cons

### Advantages

- Warm, attractive color.
- Easy to carve and engrave.
- Durable and inexpensive.

### Limitations

- Color can fade in the sun.
- It is translucent with no crystalline sparkle.
- Imitated with glass.

## Care and cleaning

- Clean with lukewarm water and mild soap.
- Avoid prolonged intense sun.
- Store apart.

## See also

- [Gemstones in jewelry](https://www.711grados.com/en/gemstones-in-jewelry/)
- [Agate](https://www.711grados.com/en/agate/)
- [Seals in jewelry: Mesopotamian cylinders, scarabs and intaglios](https://www.711grados.com/en/seals-in-jewelry/)