carnelian Hear it!

carnelian Definition

car·nel·ian (kär nēl′yən)

noun

a red variety of chalcedony, used in jewelry

Etymology: altered, after L caro, flesh (because of its color) < cornelian

carnelian Usage Examples

Adjective modifier

  • orange: Carnelian Carnelian amulet This is orange, translucent carnelian whose color is associated with the sun, especially in its rising or setting form.
  • red: Hubal Pre-Islamic god whose image of red carnelian stands in Mecca.

Modifies a noun

bead: In ancient Greece there is evidence that carnelian beads and beads made of lapis lazuli were worn by wealthy members of society.