Science and History
Carnelian is a red variety of Chalcedony with a history that could fill books. Due to its deep red color, caused by the inclusion of iron oxide, many ancient cultures believed it was a stone of good luck, using it in jewelry and carving it into beads, talismans, and seals. The earliest sign of its use is in Bulgaria where beads dating back to the Early Neolithic age have been found.
Carnelian was widely used during ancient Roman times to make carved signet rings for use as a wax seal on important correspondence and was a popular material for burial scarabs in Ancient Egypt, where it was called the "Sunset Stone."
The prophet Mohammed is said to have worn a Carnelian seal on the little finger of his right hand.
These days, most commercial Carnelian comes from India, but it has been mined worldwide.
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Metaphysical Properties
Popular since prehistory among warriors, kings, and alchemists, Carnelian's reputation as a powerful stone of bold, fiery energy, a fighting spirit, and joyful motivation has been cemented among numerous cultures. To many, it was simply a stone of luck, but to those who believed in its abilities, it was a stone of making ones own luck through creativity, insight, and a deep stirring of the soul's passion.
