Carnelian

A reddish mineral of the chalcedony family of quartz, usually found in nature with colored bands (like agate) but exposure to the sun or other heat and pressure will make the color more uniform. The tendency to have layers of color once made it popular for the carving of cameo jewelry.

Car*nel"ian (?), n. [For carnelian; influenced by L. carneus fleshy, of flesh, because of its flesh red color. See Cornellan.] Min.

A variety of chalcedony, of a clear, deep red, flesh red, or reddish white color. It is moderately hard, capable of a good polish, and often used for seals.

© Webster 1913.