Updated as of June 2026
How to clean and care for Carnelian
Durable. Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid prolonged heat, which can affect the color.
Step by step
- Fill a bowl with warm water and a few drops of mild dish soap.
- Soak the piece briefly, then gently brush with a soft toothbrush. Be gentle, this stone is softer.
- Rinse in clean water (keep a strainer over the drain) and pat dry with a lint-free cloth.
- Store in a soft pouch away from harder gems that could scratch it.
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Frequently asked questions
How do you clean Carnelian?
Durable. Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid prolonged heat, which can affect the color.
Can you use an ultrasonic cleaner on Carnelian?
No. Carnelian can be damaged by ultrasonic or steam cleaners. Stick to warm soapy water and a soft cloth.
Does Carnelian scratch easily?
Carnelian rates 6.75 on the Mohs scale. That is on the softer side, so handle and store it carefully.