02 CARNELIAN
Categorised under the cryptocrystalline branch of the quartz family, carnelian is a warm and fiery gemstone, with vivid colours that make it extremely desirable for jewellery making. These colours are mainly the result of iron impurities that form within the colourless quartz crystal, and can vary from pale pinkishorange to a deep rusty brown. The most popular varieties are those in vibrant orange and red-orange, which could explain why the ancient Egyptians described the gemstone as ‘the setting sun’. In ancient Greek, Roman and Babylonian cultures, the stone was worn by nobles as amulets and talismans, as well as for making insignia rings and seals. Today, carnelian still plays a decorative role, and is usually cut and polished into gleaming cabochons to be used as beads for bracelets, necklaces and earrings.
Set in 18K yellow gold, these fiery carnelian beads provide a striking colour contrast in the lifelike Cactus de Cartier collection by Cartier.
