Carneol

Inel din argint cu carneol(carnelian stone)
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Carnelian belongs to the quartz group of minerals, the second most abundant mineral group on earth. Although all quartz gemstones share the same chemical composition of silicon dioxide, they are classified into two distinct branches based on crystal formation: Macrocrystalline quartz and cryptocrystalline quartz. Carnelian belongs to the cryptocrystalline branch of quartz. Cryptocrystalline, also referred to as chalcedony quartz, includes a variety of other gemstones including agate, onyx and jasper. Carnelian is classified by its distinct color and is defined as a red-orange to brownish-red variety of chalcedony quartz. Carnelian obtains its color through iron impurities that form within colorless quartz crystal.

Carnelian, also referred to as ‘cornelian’, was thought to have been named after the color of the cornel cherry.

Carnelian History
Carnelian is one of the oldest known gemstones, with written records dating back over 4000 years. It was highly prized and worn by many of the world’s noble people throughout ancient times. Carnelian holds a very special place in the Christian religion. According to holy scriptures, carnelian was one of thetwelve gemstones worn on the breastplate of Aaron, the first high priest of the Israelites and a prophet. Carnelian also played significant roles in ancient Greek, Roman and Babylonian cultures. In fact, it was popularly worn inamulets and talismans, and commonly used for the making of insignia rings and seals.

Carnelian Color

Carnelian colors can range from yellowish orange to orange and from deep-red to brownish-red. Its distinctive color is owed to iron impurities and if heated, its color can be enhanced. Deep-red and reddish-orange colors are considered most desirable. Carnelian often exhibits light and dark color zones within a single specimen.

Carnelian Clarity and Luster

Carnelian ranges in clarity from translucent to opaque. When held against the light, carnelian stones can exhibit an unevenly distributed transparency, often appearing cloudy. Carnelian has an attractive vitreous to wax-like luster when cut and polished.