The autumn princess

Medalion din argint cu piatra semipretioasa carneol (carnelan stone)
Piesa unicat
Dimensiuni: ~ 4,5 cm / 2,5 cm

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.

Carnelian Gemstone and Jewelry Care and Cleaning
Carnelian does not require much when it comes to care and maintenance. It is considered quite hard and durable, however, one should still be very careful when wearing and mixing carnelian gemstones with other harder gem types, such as topaz and sapphire, because harder materials can easily scratch carnelian. Carnelian gemstones can be easily cleaned using warm soapy water and a soft cloth or brush. Be sure to rinse well to remove any remaining soapy residue.

As with most gemstones, avoid the use of harsh household chemicals as they can permanently damage the color of your stones. You should also avoid prolonged exposure to extreme heat, as heat can damage or alter the color of your gemstones. Although carnelian is very durable, it is still recommended that you always remove any jewelry prior to playing sports, exercising or performing any household chores. When storing carnelian gemstones and jewelry, always store them separately from other gemstones and wrap them in a soft cloth or place them inside a fabric-lined box.