4.27 Ct. Cabochon Carnelian from Brazil

This listing describes one translucent 4.27 carat pear shaped orangey red carnelian, presented as a cabochon, with precise dimensions of 12.09 x 8.10 x 5.99 mm. The stone is cut to a classic teardrop outline with a consistent lateral symmetry and a gently tapered apex, which optimizes orientation in both vertical and horizontal settings. Evaluated at standard eye level, the clarity grade reads as eye clean, showing no visible inclusions or fractures that disrupt light transmission, and the overall translucency allows for an even internal glow rather than a fully opaque appearance. Color intensity is vivid, exhibiting a saturated orangey red that remains consistent across the table and pavilion zones, and the polish is excellent, yielding sharp, concentrated specular highlights that indicate a high quality lapidary finish. Origin is Brazil, and enhancement is disclosed as dyeing, a common and accepted treatment for carnelian to deepen and even out tone, disclosed here for full transparency.

From a lapidary and gemmological perspective, this cabochon demonstrates considered craftsmanship in dome profiling and edge finishing. The 5.99 mm height relative to the 8.10 mm width produces a substantial dome that enhances depth of color and preserves strong light reflection, while the smooth transition from dome to girdle shows accurate tool control and consistent abrasion removal. The absence of polish lines or pitting, noted in inspection, suggests the final stages employed progressively finer abrasives and a judicious use of cerium or diamond polishing compounds appropriate to microcrystalline quartz material. Technical properties relevant to setting design include a Mohs hardness in the range of 6.5 to 7, a refractive index near 1.544 to 1.553, and a specific gravity around 2.58 to 2.64, values consistent with carnelian as a variety of chalcedony. Because the piece has been dyed, standard care recommendations apply, including avoidance of prolonged exposure to organic solvents, strong acids, harsh ultrasonic cleaning, and high heat that can affect dye stability. For routine maintenance, gentle warm water, mild detergent, and a soft brush or cloth are recommended, and bezel or collet settings are advised to limit mechanical abrasion to the surface.

For designers and collectors seeking complementary materials, this carnelian pairs exceptionally well with lighter neutral or opalescent accents, notably White Opal, which provides a visual counterpoint through its lower saturation and potential play of light. When combining this cabochon with White Opal, consider the contrast between the carnelian s dense, warm body color and the opal s milky translucence to create dynamic focal pieces, such as a pendant where the carnelian sits as the primary element and small White Opal cabochons form halo or inlay accents. Mounting recommendations for sustained wear include a three to four strand bezel or a partial bezel with secure prongs at the narrow apex to protect the point, with seat milling tailored to the 12.09 x 8.10 mm footprint to prevent rotation. For rings intended for frequent daily wear, lower profile settings that shield the dome while maintaining visibility of the vivid color are preferable. This carnelian represents an excellent option for collectors who appreciate well executed cabochon geometry, stable material properties when properly cared for, and a warm vibrant color enhanced through dyeing, all backed by provenance from Brazil. The Natural Gemstone Company stands behind the disclosure of enhancement and origin, and we are available to discuss setting specifications, provide calibrated sketches for bezel seats, or assist with pairing options including White Opal accents, to ensure the stone performs optimally in its intended design.