Carnelian
About Carnelian
A translucent orange to red variety of chalcedony colored by iron oxide. It was one of the most popular gems of the ancient world. The Indus Valley Civilization made long etched carnelian beads that were traded as far as Mesopotamia. Romans favored it for signet rings because hot wax does not stick to it. Ancient Egyptians placed it in burials. Much modern carnelian is heat treated agate. India and Brazil are major sources.
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