Monday, November 24, 2008

Carnelian The Alternative Birthstone For August Babies


This ring, is either, a Carnelian cabachon, Mexican Fire Opal, Mandarin Garnet, or Red Agate. It was made by myself, and the gemstone is genuine, though unidentified.

I am an August baby, and I already made a post about Peridot. I love Peridot. If you have never experienced gem quality Peridot, than you no doubt are not a big fan of Peridot. In the commercial markets, it is dull, lifeless, and very often included. But all you August babies, there is gem quality Peridot out there, and it is stunning.

The alternative birthstone, for August is Carnelian. Carnelian is also an alternative birthstone for the Zodiac Sign Virgo. Carnelian is a member of the Chalcedony family, and is a hot red color, in its finest form. It is usually heat treated, to get this red hot color, and is extremely hard to find in its natural form. They are always cabachon cut, or that I have seen. I have several, loose stones, that I think are Carnelian but have not had them tested.

It has a hardness, of 6 1/2 to 7, on the Mohs Hardness Scale, which makes it suitable for jewelry. It is advised, to set with care, and wear with care, as 6 1/2 does not make it the toughest gemstone on the market. Pendants, and Earrings, would probably be the better options.

When held against the light, Carnelian's color variety will show stripes. Natural Carnelian, shows a cloudy distribution of color.

Carnelian was used to protect the traveler after death and guard against evil. Carnelian's healing properties are thought to help purify the blood, relieve menstrual cramps and back pain. It is also thought to be beneficial in the treatment of infertility and is worn to enhance passion and desire.

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