Reminiscent of fiery, end of summer sunsets, October Glory maple trees, and pumpkins, one of my favorite stones to wear for October is cheerful orange Carnelian. Below are eleven interesting fun facts about carnelian that you might not know...
1. Carnelian is the fiery orange to red to amber variety of Chalcedony, which is a mineral of the quartz family. Though often a translucent solid color, it may also be banded, in which case it would also be classified as agate.
2. Its name comes from a Latin word "carne", meaning "flesh."
3. Carnelian is an ancient gemstone, having been used as gem material since antiquity. In fact, the ancient Egyptians called Carnelian “the setting sun.”
4. The ancients associated it with the fertility goddess, and it was traditionally worn to enhance passion, love, and desire.
5. Carnelian is known as the Singer's Stone as it is believed to help strengthen and clarify the voice, allowing timid speakers become eloquent and bold, and also promotes confidence for performances on stage and other live media.
6. Ancient Warriors wore Carnelian around their neck for courage and physical power to conquer their enemies.
7. In Egypt, it was worn by master architects to show their rank of builder, and alchemists of the Middle Ages used it as a boiling stone to activate the energy of other Chalcedonies.
8. As the first stone in the breastplate of the High Priest, it signified the blood of the martyrs and was once believed to prevent illness and the Plague.
9. Carnelian is believed to possess healing properties. It is said to promote vitality, courage, and motivation, while also enhancing creativity and concentration.
10. It is associated with the sacral chakra, which is believed to be responsible for emotional balance and the flow of energy within the body.
11. Carnelian is also traditionally known to guard against falling masonry and accidents with tools. Some believe it also guards the home against theft, fire, storms, and accidents.
11. Carnelian was historically the birthstone for August.
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