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Ancient Egyptian tombs are full of Carnelian jewels, because of the Egyptians’ belief that Carnelian is powerful in the path to the Afterlife. According to their system, amulets of Carnelian proved helpful in ensuring a soul’s safe passage into the next world. In more modern times, Goethe attributed the powers of Carnelian to provide protection against evil, of continuation of hope, comfort and good luck. The blood-red varieties were greatly valued by the ancients, who produced beautiful engravings in carnelian and used them as ‘seals’. Buddhists in China and India created amulets inlaid with Carnelian, ascribing to those amulets the powers of protection and utilizing them for many rituals.
Carnelian is a translucent form of the silica mineral known as ‘Chalcedony’, which is a variety of quartz. Carnelian ranges in color from yellow or reddish-brown to a deep red. When it grades into brown it is known as Sard. When it contains bands of white, it is known as Sardonyx. Chemically, Carnelian is composed of Silicon Dioxide, SiO2, and gets its red color from Hematite (Iron Oxide-FeO2) impurities.
Carnelian is associated with emotional warmth, creativity, reproduction, rebirth, reincarnation and past life recall. It is said to be an excellent motivator in matters of business and career-choices. Carnelian directly works on lower chakras, so it is believed to dispel arthritis, rheumatism, lower back troubles, female reproductive problems, increases fertility and cures impotence.
Most Carnelian found in the market is actually stained Chalcedony from Brazil or Uruguay. The finest Carnelian, however, is found in India and Arabia.
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