Carnelian is a type of chalcedony quartz found in reds, oranges and brown-earth tones of moderate hardness on the Moh scale, rating 7 for durability. It is a well-loved stone because of the warm, comforting strength of color it holds. Coming in a whole assortment of opaque to translucent tones, carnelian is soft enough to be carved as well as faceted or cabochon cut. It is often found in antique jewelry, in cameos and miniature shallow reliefs. Today all carnelian sold is either heat-treated, dyed or both.