Agate

Amethyst

Aquamarine

Aventurine

Carnelian

Chrysoprase

Haematite

Jade

Jasper

Malachite

Quartz Crystal

Rose Quartz

Sugilite

Tiger's Eye

Topaz

Tourmaline

Verdite

Carnelian

A motivating gem, it brings joy, happiness and blessings. This central African gemstone is either orange banded with yellow or a deeper uniform orange colour (see also: Colour Significance). It is hard and tough - a translucent form of chalcedony. Its history goes back thousands of years BC and has been used extensively in jewellery since that time. Especially favourable for signet rings, seals, cameos and scarabs because of its hardiness and rich colour. The Arabs engraved it and used to wear this form of carnelian necklace to protect against the tricksters and envious pranksters. Envy is feared - in the east, as it's believed the envied will lose their possessions. Mohammed's favoured stone - even Koran verses were inscribed on carnelian stones.

Recommended to prevent nosebleeds and all blood diseases, it is also recommended for heart and liver disorders and is said to heal neuralgia and rheumatism. Also used in the treatment of kidney and gallstones. It can also be used in the relief of disorders of the spleen, spine and pancreas. Known to be effective in the treatment of pollen allergies and colds, as well as in the treatment of infections, fever and blood poisoning and muscle spasms, rheumatism and convulsions. In addition, it is used in the treatment of menstrual disorders, impotence and infertility. It is also used inthe treatment of arthritis.

Said to stimulate analytical capabilities and precision thinking, carnelian is stimulating and motivational and dispels apathy. It increases physical energy and personal power, engenders compassion and encourages present-moment awareness. It aids in building perceptiveness and awakens one's inherent (perhaps latent) skills and talents and also protects against fear and rage. It balances creativity and mental processes. Strengthens astral visions. It can energise us, stimulate courage, self-confidence, ambition, and mobilise us into action, helping people to speak out and assert themselves. It can help to bring our ideas to fruition and can heal jealousy and envy and can protect us from an envious person. When worn to bed it is said to halt nightmares. Both Mohammed and Napoleon wore one (see also: How they Work).

Astrologically associated with the zodiacal gemstone of Virgo (23 August - 22 September) and the (ancient) birthstone for August. The dream significance of carnelian is impending misfortune.

This mineral is available in many practical and useful forms