Gemstones - Background and Lore - Chalcedony

Chalcedony is one of the oldest, most abundant, and most popular gemstones. The ancient Turkish seaport gave this gem it's name. This stone has been considered a powerful talisman and were thought to prevent drowning or drive away ghosts and bad spirits.

Chalcedony's affordability and range of colors and patterns make it a popular with gem collectors.

Chalcedony sources include Australia, Brazil, Czech Republic, Germany, Iceland, India, Italy, Mexico, Russia, Scotland, US, and Uruguay. It has a hardness of 6.5-7 on the Moh's Scale and a good toughness rating.

Some varieties of chalcedony include agate, amethystine chalcedony, bloodstone, carnelian, chrysocolla-in-chalcedony, chrysoprase, dendritic agate, fire agate, iris agate, jasper, milky chalcedony, onyx, sard, and sardonyx.

Chalcedony's color can change when exposed to heat, but light has no effect. hydrofluoric acid, nitric acid should not come in contact. Ultrasonic and steam cleaning are usually safe, but warm soapy water is best. Some alternatives include amber, hematite, jade, lapis lazuli, malachite, moonstone, rose quartz, shell, tiger eye, and turquoise.

Chalcedony is said to prevent touchiness and melancholy. Worn by many to promote calm and peace. Chalcedony also stimulates creativity.

Gemstones - Background and Lore - Carnelian

Carnelian is a variety of chalcedony. It ranges from translucent to semitransparent yellowish orange, orangy red, or brownish orange. It is often made into beads or cameos.

It was believed that carnelian could transform bashful speakers into eloquent ones.

Carnelian is found in Brazil, India, and Uruguay. It is a 6.5-7 on the Moh's Scale of Hardness, and it's toughness is good.

When exposed to heat, the carnelian's color may change, but it is stable when exposed to light. It doesn't tolerate exposure to hydrofluoric acid.

Carnelian is commonly heated to enhance it's color. Ultrasonic and steam cleaning are usually safe,, but warm soapy water is best.

Some alternatives to carnelian are amber, fire opal, jade, and sard chalcedony.

Carnelian - general healing stone. Restores the natural energy flows of your body. Carnelian is the most powerful POWER stone for focusing, realization, and self actualization. It reminds us to be in the moment.