Carnelian Oval Cabochon

The dramatic, deep orange-red color of this oval carnelian cabochon makes it a beautiful option for custom jewelry designs; the gemstone's relative hardness makes it a good substitute for other softer gems in pieces that will see wear, such as bracelets and rings. For an almost gothic look, match it with black onyx. Carnelian is a type of chalcedony with a semi-opaque to translucent reddish-orange color. Its color comes from its iron oxide content and gemstones may present a uniform color or be faintly banded. Its name comes from the Latin "cornum," meaning cherry, due to the resemblance of its color to that fruit; carnelian is reputed in folklore to engender eloquence in its wearers.

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Gemstone type: Carnelian
Stone shape: Oval
Stone size: 14 x 10mm, 22 x 8mm, 8 x 6mm, 10 x 8mm
Stone type: Natural
Color: Red
Enhancement: Dyed (D), Heat-treated (H)
Mohs hardness: 6.5–7
Refractive index: 1.535–1.539
Specific gravity: 2.58–2.64
Cutting center: Taiwan