Why Does Carnelian Have Black Spots? Scientific and Spiritual Reasons

56 Comments / By Mona Jawad / July 5, 2023

Carnelian is a beautiful, semi-precious gemstone that belongs to the quartz family. It is known for its vivid orange and red hues, which are a result of the presence of iron oxide. However, some carnelian stones may exhibit black spots, which can be either natural inclusions or acquired impurities.

In this article, we will explore the scientific and spiritual reasons behind these black spots and discuss how to clean and care for your carnelian gemstone.

Table of Contents

Scientific Reasons for Black Spots on Carnelian

Natural Inclusions

Carnelian, like other quartz varieties, is formed through a natural process of crystallization. During this process, various minerals and impurities can become trapped within the crystal structure, resulting in inclusions. These inclusions can appear as black spots or other imperfections within the stone. The presence of these inclusions does not necessarily detract from the stone’s beauty or value but adds to its uniqueness.

A similar reason was quoted for the other quartz crystals in my article “Why Are There Black Dots in Rose Quartz Stone?“

Acquired Impurities

Black spots on the carnelian can also be the result of external factors, such as dirt, debris, or chemical residues that have accumulated on the stone’s surface. These impurities can be removed through proper cleaning and care.

There are a number of other reasons as well:

Temperature Changes: Sudden changes in temperatures can alter the molecular arrangement of most natural stones including carnelians.
Exposure to Heat: Heat has the ability to trigger unwanted chemical reactions inside the crystal lattice leading to the formation of undesirable products which appear as black spots/ defects.
Exposure to Chemicals or Bleach: Strong chemicals like acids, alkalis and other oxidizing agents also trigger unwanted chemical reactions on the surface of the crystal, leading to areas of dullness or opacity.

Spiritual Reasons for Black Spots on Carnelian

Black spots on a carnelian have been interpreted both physically and spiritually. Crystal healers and those who are interested in such things may see these spots of darkness as evidence that the stone has taken in negative energy.

Some people believe that the black spots on carnelian have spiritual significance. They may associate these inclusions with negative energy or consider them an indication of the stone’s ability to absorb and transmute negative vibrations.

Despite widespread popular belief to the contrary, no credible scientific explanation has ever been offered for the purported connection between the black dots in carnelians and the absorption of spiritual energy.

What to Do? Cleaning and Caring for Your Carnelian

If you notice black spots on your carnelian stone and wish to clean it, follow these steps:

Inspect the Stone: First, determine whether the black spots are natural inclusions or acquired impurities. If they are natural inclusions, it may not be possible to remove them, as they are part of the stone’s internal structure.
Clean the Stone: If the black spots are acquired impurities, you can clean your carnelian stone using a soft, damp cloth and mild soap. Gently rub the stone to remove dirt, debris, and residue. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as they may damage the stone. You may use any economical yet effective cleaning solution, like this Hagerty Jewelry Cleaning Solution, that I found on Amazon.

Recommended Jewelry Cleaning Solution: Hagerty Jewelry Cleaning Solution

Rinse and Dry: After cleaning, rinse the stone thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue. Then, pat the stone dry with a soft cloth and allow it to air dry completely before storing or wearing it.
Polish the Stone: If desired, you can use a jewelry polishing cloth to gently buff the surface of your carnelian stone and restore its natural shine. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper use.
Store Your Carnelian Properly: To prevent future impurities from accumulating on your carnelian stone, store it in a clean, dry place away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. Consider using a soft pouch or jewelry box to protect the stone from scratches and damage.

Conclusion- To Sum it Up

All in all, black spots on a carnelian can be attributed to natural inclusions or acquired impurities, but not spiritual reasons. Proper cleaning and care can help maintain the beauty and luster of your carnelian gemstone. Remember to respect and appreciate the uniqueness of each stone, as the inclusions and imperfections are part of what makes it special.