Carnelian properties

The name of carnelian still sparks debates regarding its origin.
Some argue that its appellation comes from medieval Latin "corneolus," derived from the Latin "cornum," associated with the "cornelian cherry" due to its resemblance to the translucent fruit.
Others suggest an origin linked to the Latin "caro" or "carnis," meaning "flesh," in reference to its distinctive color.

During the time of Pliny the Elder, it was called "Sard," associated with the city of Sardis in Libya, or derived from the Persian "sered" meaning "reddish-yellow."
Carnelian is also known as the Mecca stone, emphasizing its characteristic hue.
Although sometimes referred to as Sardonyx, it is worth noting that the latter differs slightly from carnelian, notably with a darker shade, although the distinction is subtle.

Carnelian, a variety of translucent chalcedony, exhibits a palette ranging from orange to red, with these hues attributed to traces of iron oxide impurities. It can display shades from golden-orange to reddish-brown, with the possibility of altering its color through heat treatment of the iron impurities.

When purchasing carnelian, caution is advised as it is among the stones most susceptible to counterfeiting. Often, agates are altered through a bath of iron nitrate to mimic carnelian. These dyed agates often reveal multicolored lines rather than the typical uniformity of carnelian, although the distinction can sometimes be subtle. Therefore, increased caution is necessary when evaluating this precious gemstone.

Stories, beliefs and legends about the carnelian

Carnelian, a significant gemstone, has left its mark on various civilizations around the world, particularly in regions where it was abundant.

Traces of carnelian date back to the Neolithic period, notably at the Mehrgarh site in Pakistan, dating from the 4th to the 5th millennium BCE. Perforated pieces attest to its early use as a material for crafting jewelry, thus highlighting its aesthetic and symbolic appeal.

Its influence also extends to the Minoan Bronze Age, where archaeological discoveries at the palace of Knossos in Crete have revealed the early use of carnelian.

Carnelian played a significant role among the Sumerians, as evidenced by the discovery of carnelian jewelry in the tomb of the Ur Queen, Puabi, dating back to around 2600 BCE. This precious stone was prized for its aesthetic and symbolic value, reflecting the wealth and spirituality of Sumerian culture.

In ancient Egypt, carnelian held major religious importance. The goddess Isis used it to protect the deceased during their journey to the afterlife. Egyptians engraved parts of the Book of the Dead on carnelian amulets, believed to facilitate the passage of souls.
Additionally, it was worn by architects to indicate their social status.
Egyptians also referred to it as the "setting sun" due to its red color symbolizing blood, making it ubiquitous in their beliefs.

The Romans extensively utilized carnelian for the creation of seals, as hot wax did not adhere to this stone, and for crafting jewelry. Rings adorned with engraved carnelian depicting wild animals were prized for their symbolism of protection and luck.

Both Greeks and Romans frequently wore signet rings adorned with carnelian, some engraved with figures representing the god Serapis or the goddess Isis, both associated with time and death.

The Hebrews believed that carnelian offered protection against the plague.

In Christianity, it was also a symbol of the apostle Philip and featured among the stones of Aaron’s breastplate, as described in Exodus. According to the 1st-century Archbishop of Mainz, it represented the blood of martyrs.

The seal of Muhammad was an engraved carnelian, set in a silver ring.

In Arab tradition, carnelian was believed to have the power to stop bleeding.

During the Middle Ages, alchemists bestowed upon carnelian the status of a "hot" stone, believing in its ability to activate the properties of other stones, thus considering it a catalyst for mineral energies.

Today, Buddhists in China, India, and Tibet continue to venerate carnelian for its protective powers. They carry on the Egyptian tradition by associating it with turquoise and lapis lazuli, a practice aimed at amplifying its beneficial properties.

Mines: Saudi Arabia, Australia, Brazil, India, Uruguay and the USA

Healing properties and benefits of the carnelian

Carnelian, a gemstone renowned for centuries for its beneficial properties, is famous for its multiple virtues that extend far beyond its mere beauty.

• Considered a ally of health, this stone is believed to have the power to purify not only the blood but also the kidneys, thus promoting better circulation and optimal functioning of the excretory organs.
• Additionally, this gem is said to have the ability to remove energetic blockages and neutralize pain associated with various conditions such as fever, neuralgia, nosebleeds, infections, and muscular pains. Its presence is said to alleviate physical ailments, offering welcome relief in times of distress.
• Carnelian is intimately linked to sexuality and vitality. By stimulating the sacral chakra, it is said to fuel the flames of passion and encourage fertility. Moreover, it is reputed to help overcome issues of impotence and frigidity, offering valuable support to couples seeking to enhance their intimacy.
• Its scarlet color also evokes menstruation, and it is believed to have the power to alleviate menstrual pain, providing welcome comfort during female cycles.
• Carnelian is said to have regenerative effects on bodily tissues, relieving muscle spasms, accelerating wound healing, and combating conditions such as arthritis and rheumatism.
• It is also believed to be beneficial for liver and pancreatic conditions, helping detoxify these organs and promote their proper functioning.
• Metabolically, carnelian is believed to play a crucial role in helping reduce high cholesterol and triglyceride levels, thereby contributing to maintaining a healthy lipid profile.
• Moreover, it is renowned for its beneficial properties for digestion, relieving abdominal pain, and promoting a balanced digestive system.
• It is also believed to have a positive impact on uric acid levels, thus helping prevent conditions such as gout.
• Beyond its physical health benefits, carnelian is also praised as a stone of creativity. By stimulating imagination and encouraging artistic expression, it inspires innovation and fosters the development of new ideas and projects.
• By wearing or using carnelian, one could cultivate an open and inventive mind, ready to embrace challenges with energy and inspiration.

Carnelian jewelry samples