Carnelian Sphere (No.645)

Carnelian is a variety of the silica mineral Chalcedony which is a microfine type of Quartz coloured by impurities of iron oxide. The colour can vary greatly ranging from pale orange to reddish-brown.

Carnelian is commonly used as a semi-precious gemstone, sold as tumbled stones, polished pebbles and jewellery, sometimes it is available as rough pieces or crafted and polished shapes. During Roman times Carnelian was used to make engraved gems for signet or seal rings for imprinting a seal with wax on correspondence or other important documents as hot wax does not stick to carnelian.