Carnelian
Carnelian (also spelled cornelian) is a brownish-red mineral commonly used as a semi-precious gemstone.[1][2]
Similar to carnelian is a darker and harder stone called 'sard'. The two names are often used interchangeably. Both carnelian and sard are varieties of the silica mineral chalcedony coloured by impurities of iron oxide.
The gemstone has been used since prehistory.[3]
Carnelian Media
Necklace with gold beads and carnelian beads, Cypriot artwork with Mycenaean inspiration, c. 1400–1200 BC.[source?] From Enkomi. British Museum.
Indian carnelian beads with white design, etched in white with an acid, imported to Susa in 2600–1700 BCE. Found in the tell of the Susa acropolis. Louvre Museum, reference Sb 17751. These beads are identical with beads found in the Indus Civilization site of Dholavira.
This Egyptian necklace consists of biconical carnelian beads, beads of rolled strips of sheet gold, and ten amulets. The Walters Art Museum.
