Carnellian
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CARNELLIAN
This translucent red-orange chalcedony has been used to make jewelry since the Neolithic era, when it was often fashioned into beads.
Its name is said to come from the cornel tree, a reference to the color of the flesh of its fruit.
A prized stone in Ancient Egypt, where its blood-red shade made it a symbol of life, carnelian was found on Tutankhamen’s breast plate.
The Persians believed it offered protection against the “evil eye” as well as protecting against venomous snakes and insect bites.
It has been carved into intaglios since Ancient Rome. Hardness: 6.5. Birthstone of Aries, Taurus and Scorpion. India, Yemen, Brazil, Uruguay.
