Sardonyx

                                                 Scientific

Quartz comes in many different forms such as clear crystals, microcrystalline rocks, and massive chunks.  Microcrystalline forms are further subdivided by transparency (chalcedony and chert) and each further by color and each of these subdivisions has its own name.  Officially, agate is a form of chalcedony that is translucent to transparent and exhibits a wide variety of banding.  Different colors of banding are due to different chemical impurities and often are known by different names.  With iron inclusions chalcedony will turn a distinctive red or reddish-brown color.  If the color is consistent throughout the stone, it is called Carnelian.  If the iron creates bands, the stone is then known as sardonyx as the iron bands are known as sard.  Although the carnelian occurs worldwide, the best stones come from India. Its creation is associated with lava deposits.

                                                    Uses

The primary use of Carnelian is for jewelry.  It is known as beads from the early neolithic and as faceted stones from 5000 BC.  It was commonly used for seals to imprint wax during Roman times.

                                                 Meaning

Carnelian is a stone that represents warmth, life, vibrancy, strength, bravery, courage when speaking in public, and creativity. Its various hues are believed to hold specific meanings and properties, such as red carnelian for courage and strength, and orange carnelian for creativity and joy.  Carnelian is considered a lucky stone, capable of boosting self-esteem, creativity, motivation, love, passion, and courage.