Carnelian is a reddish-orange variety of the mineral chalcedony.
Stones can exhibit solid colour or may also be banded. All banded chalcedony, irrespective of colour, is correctly known as agate.
The name 'carnelian' comes from the Latin word 'carnis', meaning 'flesh', because of its colour.
In ancient Egypt, carnelian was widely available. It's known to have been used for jewellery, amulets, and seals.