Microcrystalline quartz, as its name suggests, is a type of quartz crystal made from grainy, small, or fibrous quartz formations.
Besides their common features, it is safe to say that these gemstones are completely separate entities. That said, they can still be misunderstood by each other.
With this in mind, this article will explore everything you need to know about Carnelian and Sardonyx to understand each crystal once and for all.
Let’s get started.
What Is Sardonyx?
Sardonyx is a combination of onyx and sard (an orange chalcedony that can be considered similar to carnelian). It may also be referred to as Sardinian Onyx.
Here, the sard is responsible for the near-black, red to dark orange hues, while onyx is typically always pitch-black.
The minerals are layered in bands to create what we know as sardonyx. It comes in a range of different coloring, including brown, red, white, black, and a ton of patterns and shades within.
The best specimens of sardonyx that display those impressive contrasting layers are typically found in India. Other deposits are found in Madagascar, Germany, Uruguay, the US, Brazil, and the Czech Republic.
Sardonyx Properties
In order to completely understand the properties of sardonyx, we have to take a trip to the past and survey how our ancestors used the stone and for what purpose.
It was believed that in ancient civilizations sardonyx carvings would affect their physical abilities and attributes.
In Ancient Rome, the women wore sardonyx jewelry that featured cameos of the Goddess of Love, Venus, in hopes to attract a strong partner.
On the other hand, the men wore sardonyx with carvings of battle. This included carvings of the God of War, Ares, when they went into battle to harness their strength and protection against their enemies.
In terms of crystal healing, sardonyx is a protector against all things evil. It is advised by healing practitioners to place sardonyx stones in all the corners of their homes to create a barrier against toxic and negative energies.
You can even place the stone under your pillow before you go to bed to encourage a night full of rest. Plus, it can even help to increase relaxation, reduce irritability, and improve your overall quality of sleep.
Therefore, if you’re struggling to sleep then you can catch some serious ‘Z’s’ with the help of Sardonyx!
In terms of a physical level, sardonyx features nourishing minerals that are craved by the human body. The stone can help assist in the functioning of the endocrine system, cleanses the skin, and promotes good circulation.
Sardonyx Uses
Sardonyx is an incredibly popular gemstone, one of the reasons for this is that it has a ton of different uses. It has been used throughout history as an ornamental stone. However, it has since been seen carved into figurines and set in jewelry.
In the Czech Republic, it can often be found cut into small beads for costume jewelry. You can also find agate gemstone beads made from authentic sardonyx stones – found in a variety of sizes and shapes.
Thanks to its unique properties, this cryptocrystalline quartz is ideal for carving intricate designs into objects including sculptures and bowls.
Additionally, if you wear this stone, it is believed to bring protection and luck to the users. This makes it valuable among those who practice alternative spiritual practices.
This all comes together to make Sardonyx one of the most sought-after gemstones in the world.
What Is Carnelian?
Like the first flash of autumn brilliance or the unexpected fire of a sunset, carnelian can captivate anyone who gazes upon it.
Thanks to its bold energy, you can feel a rush of joy and warmth that lingers, empowers, and stimulates.
In fact, it is known as the stone of leadership, motivation, courage, and endurance. Carnelian stones have been used to inspire and protect those throughout history.
Carnelian is categorized as an orange-colored variety of Chalcedony with a glass, translucent appearance. Additionally, it is a mineral belonging to the quartz family.
Its colors can vary from pale pinkish-orange to a deep rusty brown color, however, it is typically known for its beautiful orange and red-orange appearance.
Its name comes from the Latin word for ‘flesh’.
Carnelian Properties
At the lower end of the chakra system is the energy that is used to define us. This is found in the groin area and is responsible for creating life itself.
This is generally referred to as our ‘sexual energy’, however, its powers go beyond this.
Usually withholding your sexual energy and transmuting this energy for your own good is considered more beneficial than using it for your own gratification.
Instead, you should take control of this energy and channel it into aspects that are important to you rather than other people.
There are many ideologies and scholars who have transmuted sexuality to create groundbreaking ideas, for instance, Nikola Tesla.
If you’re looking to access this energy, then Carnelian is the key. It helps to strengthen the process of transmutation as you’re manifesting your desires and dreams.
Take the stone and meditate with it over your groin area to increase the flow of energy from the sacral chakra.
Carnelian Uses
Necklace – This helps to promote energy and vitality in your everyday life.
Bracelet – A carnelian bracelet can enhance sexuality and creativity.
Ring – Place a carnelian ring on your third finger to increase determination and willpower.
Final Thoughts
Despite both carnelian and sardonyx being microcrystalline quartz, they are very different crystals.
Not only do they have very different appearances but they have different properties, too. For instance, sardonyx is more of a nourishing stone while carnelian helps to empower you.
Hopefully, this guide has informed you on everything you need to know about carnelian and sardonyx to fully understand these two gemstones.
Hi, my name is Andrea Daehma and I have been collecting and using crystals in my everyday life for just over six years now.
I have my own collection of crystals gracing my house, several for every scenario I could think of.
Learning about crystals has truly changed my life, and I want to help others turn their life around too. Please enjoy my website and find your own small stone to begin your crystal journey with!
