Carnelian

Old birthstone for May and a favourite of Greeks and Romans.

Carnelian, (sometimes spelt cornelian), is translucent reddish-orange, coloured by particles of haematite or goethite, and is sometimes banded.

Most carnelian originates from India, where it is left in the sun to intensify the colour - a natural form of heat treatment, it is also found in Australia and Brazil.

Carnelian was used in many potions in Medieval times, ground to a powder and imbibed as a cure for blood conditions. It calms the temper, brings acceptance of the cycle of life and dispels apathy.

Dalmatian stone reputedly removes disillusionment

Dalmatian Stone aka Dalmatian Agate/Dalmatian Jasper

Opaque mottled chalcedony, dalmatian jasper/agate grew in popularity during the 1990s, when "power bracelets" were a fashion item.