An exquisite all natural nugget necklace featuring stunning Carnelian.
Precious metal: No Metal
Average Weight:
Number of Gemstones: 1 type
Shape: Nugget
Total Carat Weight: 280.00cts
Carnelian belongs to the quartz group of minerals, the second most abundant mineral group on earth. 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 kornel cherry. Carnelian is also one of the many gemstones classified as 'carbuncle'. Carbuncle is a term that was originally used to refer only to red garnet, but today, the name can be used in reference to any red cabochon cut gemstone. Recently, natural carnelian has become extremely rare and in order to keep up with demand, many carnelian stones are actually agate stones that have been dyed and heated to obtain their carnelian colors.
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 Bible, carnelian was one of the twelve 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. It was popularly worn in amulets and talismans, and commonly used for the making of insignia rings and seals.
Carnelian can be found in many places throughout the world. The most significant sources include Brazil, Uruguay, India, Madagascar and the United States (New Jersey and Oregon). Most carnelian gemstones available today are sourced from India and South America.