The Fiery Allure of Carnelian Stones
Known as the singers stone, the sunset stone, or the artists stone, carnelian can heal the mind, body, and soul. Working with carnelian stone is an excellent choice if you are seeking a creative kick, reconnecting with your inner child, or simply needing some warmth in your life.
What is Carnelian?
Carnelian stones are a variety of quartz known as chalcedony or agate. It ranges from 6.5-7 on the Mohs hardness scale and is characterized by its translucency and luster. Its name comes from the Latin word carnis or ‘flesh’ due to its red coloring.
How is Carnelian Formed?
The stone is formed when molten rock rises to the earth’s surface and begins to cool. This process leaves behind small cavities in the rock’s surface. These cavities are then filled with silica and quartz-rich liquids, which turn into crystals as pressure changes.
What Colors are Carnelian Stones?
Carnelian crystals come in diverse hues, from pale orange to a deep reddish-orange and even an intense reddish-brown. Each shade is said to possess unique and distinct characteristics.
Orange carnelian symbolizes joy, happiness, and pleasure, while the red variety symbolizes passion, self-confidence, courage, and bold energy. Learning more about each color will help you determine the best choice based on the energy you are trying to call in.
Where Are Carnelian Stones Found?
India has been the primary source of carnelian stones for thousands of years. However, the healing crystal can be found in many areas of the world, including:
- Brazil
- Egypt
- Uruguay
- Australia
What is the Symbolism Behind Carnelian?
Historically, carnelian has had notable symbolism and has been regarded as a lucky stone. In the 18th Century, the English and French royal courts wore carnelian crystals in brooches as a secret sign of good luck.
In Arab history, it was called the stone of kings as the rich, warm colors were associated with powerful symbols like lions and fire. In Egypt, carnelian stone has been worn in jewelry to ward off the Evil Eye and bring peace since the ancient times.
What are the Healing Properties of Carnelian?
Carnelian remains a highly valued stone for its physical, emotional, mental, and metaphysical properties. The wide range of healing properties offers the user a holistic approach to healing, wellness, and personal growth.
Physical Benefits of Carnelian
Like other fiery stones, carnelian crystal is associated with physical benefits such as stimulating the muscles, helping oxygen flow freely, and keeping your tissues and organs healthy. It is also a great stone for your sexual energy as it is said to increase your libido and improve fertility.
The warm vibrations of carnelian stone can also be a welcome relief for those with back problems. The stone is thought to help bones and ligaments heal, making you feel loose and limber.
Emotional and Mental Benefits of Carnelian
Carnelian is a bright burst of liveliness for those feeling a little sluggish or lost in life. It encourages creative energy and is excellent for anyone needing a little inspiration for artistic projects such as writing, painting, drawing, or dancing. Letting the creative juices flow is a fantastic way to call in inspiration and motivation if you are feeling stuck.
It is also a great stone for release. If you have been holding onto anger or negative emotions, working with carnelian stone will help you relinquish any bleak feelings and lead with a clear mind.
Metaphysical Benefits of Carnelian
Carnelian is closely associated with your three lower chakras, which include:
- The Root Chakra
- The Sacral Chakra
- The Solar Plexus
Your Root Chakra serves as your foundation, and when it is unbalanced, you may feel insecure and like you are living life on the edge. Carnelian stone can help to balance this Chakra, leaving you feeling grounded and in control of your decision-making.
Carnelian can aid in healing your Sacral Chakra, which will allow for more passion, joy, and positive energy to flow through you. Lastly, the Solar Plexus Chakra is the center of your self-esteem. Using carnelian crystals to keep this Chakra open will increase confidence, decision-making, and emotional control.
The Zodiac Stone for Virgos
With their hardworking, practical, and self-assured personality, it makes sense that carnelian is the zodiac stone for Virgos. It helps to ensure that the positive qualities of the Virgo remain at the forefront while helping them overcome some of the challenges they face. Virgos can be tough on themselves and overly judgmental, so working with carnelian can help kick that imposter syndrome and let them live in their highest potential.
Who Should Not Use Carnelian?
Due to its high vibration and ability to amplify emotions, people who experience anxiety or are prone to anger should use caution when working with carnelian. Scorpios are known for their fiery energy and emotional, intense nature. Therefore, carnelian may not be the best stone for them, and they should use stones with stronger grounding energy, such as an amethyst or obsidian healing crystal.
How to Use Carnelian Stones
If you are beginning your healing crystal journey or looking for some inspiration on using carnelian, here are a few suggestions to get you started.
1. Keep it in your workspace
Carnelian near your workspace can increase your creativity if you have a particularly difficult project coming up or are in a creative rut. You can also put it in your work bag so it is always nearby.
2. Workout with it
Next time you head to the gym, pack carnelian to take with you! The strengthening energy of this healing stone is sure to push you through a difficult workout.
3. Place it near your vision board
Whether your goals are big or small, placing carnelian near your vision board can help you make those goals a reality. It will give you the confidence boost you need to chase any goal!
4. Wear it in jewelry
Along with the many practical uses of carnelian, it is also beautiful to look at! Purchase a pair of carnelian earrings and a matching necklace and keep its healing energy close by at all times.
As you continue to dive into your spiritual journey, you will figure out which healing crystals are the best for you. Carnelian stone is a great option for anyone who needs to deepen a connection with themselves or call in creativity, energy, passion, and confidence.