A translucent, reddish-orange to brown semi-precious gemstone, a variety of chalcedony, used in jewelry and decorative arts.
From Medieval Latin carnelus or Old French corneline; possibly from Latin carnis 'flesh' (for its color) or from Cornelian cherry. The stone has been valued since ancient times.
Carnelian is everywhere in ancient tombs and museums because cultures from Egypt to Rome believed it was the stone of courage and vitality—the reddish glow made people think it held life force.
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