The Healing Power of Carnelian
Carnelian is a type of banded Chalcedony, recognized for its red-brown color and is sometimes called Mecca stone or Pigeons Blood Agate. Chalcedony is a fibrous, microcrystalline variety of quartz deposited from aqueous solutions and often giving it a mammillary appearance. It is composed of Silicone Dioxide and its coloration comes from Hematite also called Iron Oxide. Carnelian is a primary birthstone for Virgo and secondary stone for Aries.
This gem quality stone is known for its healing, mentally grounding power. It enables one to focus on the present, bringing about confidence, eloquence and inspiration. Carnelian is known to enable success as it bolsters ambition and drive, reminding us of our future goals. It is often used to aid in decision -making, dream work, communication and protection, creating a more spontaneous, energetic and giving individual who can feel a deeper appreciation for their body while experiencing a greater connection with those around them.
In healing, Carnelian represents the third chakra and the six petaled lotus, so it is used in balancing dysfunctions of the surrounding physical organs and structures. It is also associated with the experiencing of the five senses. This stone has been used in aiding insomnia, healing neuralgia, rheumatism and asthma as well as purifying skin and blood conditions. This rich red-brown stone is a sun stone, connected with the element of fire and vibrations #1 and #3. Throughout history and in various cultures Carnelian is known as a stone of great spirituality. In ancient Egypt it was known as Thet, and believed to protect the dead in the afterlife. Here it was said to protect the Ka or soul’s journey to the next world. Carnelian appears in Hebrew mythology as one of the stones on Aaron’s breast plate also representing the Hebrew tribe of Reuben and the apostle Phillip.
Buddhists in China, Nepal and India created amulets used in various rituals which included Carnelian and were said to bring powers of protection. In Hindu or Vedic astrology it is the secondary stone of Scorpios. It was found on the robe worn by Pu-Abi, a Sumerian Queen in her excavated tomb, dated third millennium B.C.
Arabs connect Carnelian to the month of July. The Greeks and Romans knew it as Sardius, which was used in signet rings, cameos and intaglios. In more modern times, Goethe revered Carnelian as protection against evil, comfort, good luck and the continuation of hope. Carnelian is the national gemstone of Sweden and Norway.
To benefit from the powers associated with Carnelian, it can be worn, used in stone essences, for crystal healing treatments, brought into the bath or just kept in a special place within your dwelling or vehicle. Perhaps there is one more way, joining us in the effort of bringing our dream of the Carnelian Center into reality.