Tumbled carnelian from Brazil, approx. 24 mm, drum-polished. Intense orange hue due to native iron oxides in the agate structure. Available as a loose unit or in lots of 5 or 20 pieces for workshops and collections.
Item details
| Mineral |
Carnelian (orange chalcedony with Fe₂O₃ — variety of agate) |
| Dimensions |
Approx. 24 mm · Freeform ±0.5 mm |
| Shape and back |
Tumbled, rounded freeform |
| Finish |
Drum-polished (satin-glossy) |
| Hardness |
6.5-7 Mohs — resistant to everyday wear |
| Origin |
Brazil |
| Treatment |
No treatment. Color from native iron oxides in the rock. |
| Item type |
Available loose or in lots of 5 and 20 units |
These specific tumbled stones
Brazilian carnelian produces a more saturated orange than most African varieties: the concentration of hematite and goethite in the sediments of Bahia state generates a hue between intense peach and brick red, varying according to the depth of the deposit and the silicification formation temperature.
The tumbled finish respects natural variations in translucency: some areas are more translucent, others more opaque.
How carnelian is formed
Carnelian is chalcedony — microcrystalline quartz — with inclusions of hematite (Fe₂O₃) and goethite (FeOOH) distributed throughout the silica matrix. It forms in cavities of volcanic and sedimentary rocks by precipitation from hydrothermal solutions rich in silica and iron.
Uses of tumbled carnelian
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Collection and decoration — the vibrant orange creates effective contrast with blue minerals like sodalite or lazurite.
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Wire wrap — its hardness of 6.5-7 and 24 mm size make it ideal for pendants in silver, copper, or gold-filled wire.
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Lapidary workshops — lots of 20 pieces are common in workshops for finishing practice or selecting material for small cabochons.
Carnelian in lapidary tradition
Carnelian is one of the most documented minerals in lapidary history: it appears in Mesopotamian seals from 3,000 BCE, in Egyptian pharaohs' pectorals, and in Viking warriors' brooches.
In crystal traditions, carnelian is associated with vitality, action, and confidence. It is linked to fire and the motivation to start projects.
The symbolic properties attributed to minerals belong to cultural and historical traditions. They are shared for educational purposes, not as medical advice or a substitute for professional care.
How to recognize genuine carnelian
Genuine carnelian shows natural color gradations when held to light: denser orange areas alternate with more translucent areas. Under 10× magnification, chalcedony has a very fine texture with no bubbles.
Frequently asked questions
Is the carnelian dyed or treated?
No. The orange color comes from native iron oxides (hematite and goethite) in the chalcedony structure, without detectable subsequent treatment. This statement is based on lapidary observation; the piece does not include formal gemological certification.
Is it suitable for wire wrap or jewelry?
Yes. Its hardness of 6.5-7 protects it from usual wear. The 24 mm size is suitable for pendants in silver, copper, or gold-filled wire. We recommend a closed bezel setting if mounting in a ring to maximize edge protection.
Are the lots of 5 or 20 pieces of the same dimensions?
Yes. All tumbled stones in the lot are within the same size range (approx. 24 mm). There will be natural variations in tone between pieces, reflecting differences in composition within the deposit.
Does the orange tone vary between pieces?
Yes. The variation between soft peach and intense orange-red is natural and determined by the local concentration of iron oxides.
Are the dimensions exact?
The indicated size (approx. 24 mm) is the representative value for the lot. As they are drum-tumbled freeform stones, each piece varies ±0.5 mm or more along its axes.
How do you care for carnelian?
Clean with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid acids and prolonged sun exposure. For more information: mineral care guide.
More about carnelian: properties, meaning, and uses. See also: tumbled minerals · lapidary cabochons.
