This is a transparent gemstone that varies in colour from orange to reddish orange. There is also a dark brownish orange hue of carnelian that is very appropriate for men's rings. The gemstone is usually cut in a smooth (cabachon) cut. You will find oval shaped carnelian gemstones to be the most frequent shape. Carnelian gemstones are used in gold and silver jewelry and there are many beliefs that surround this gemstone. The gemstone is very appropriate for jewellery making and has a hardness of 7 on the Moh's scale that measures the hardness of gemstones. Carnelian belongs to the quartz family of gems and is also referred to by other trade names like, red chalcedony and red agate.

Geological: These stones are burnt orange in colour with some lighter or darker than others. Most have dark inclusions, while others have bands of white. All are somewhat transparent. Carnelian is a form of Quartz, the most common form of rock in the Earth's crust. Particularly, geologists classify Carnelian as a Chalcedony, a member of the crypto-crystalline or micro-crystalline group within the Quartz. Crypto-crystalline crystals are too small to be seen, even with a microscope. Carnelian ranges in colour from a clear orange red to a dark orange brown and has been known throughout history as Sadoine, Mecca Stone and Pigeon's Blood Agate. The name Carnelian, which is derived from “carne,” Latin for “flesh,” may be related to its colour, which is similar the colour of flesh. It is transparent.

Metaphysical: Carnelian stimulates energy and helps one focus while it also assists in decision making. It improves incentive, increases opulence, and offers protection from evil.
Appearance
Cornelian, also spelled Carnelian ranges in colour from light brownish-red to deep translucent red. The colour is due to Iron.

Enhancements
Carnelian is usually heat treated to produce colour, and is irregularly dyed to produce colour.