Learn About Gems : Coral

 

Coral is known to be used as a gem since prehistoric times. Coral has a history of religious meaning. Coral is one of the seven treasures in Buddhist scriptures. Coral was long thought to be a strong talisman against bleeding, evil spirits, and hurricanes.

Coral is calcium carbonate with a trade of carotene. Its color ranges from white to red. It grows in branches that look like underwater trees. Most coral is found in the Mediterranean Sea or in the Pacific off Japan and Taiwan. When you say the word coral, most people think of the coral reefs in the South Pacific like the Great Barrier Reef off Australia. However, these coral reefs are formed by a different species than the coral traditionally used in jewelry Corallium rubrum and Corallium japonicum.

The most valuable colors of coral are red, black, and pink, which is known as angel skin coral. Coral is much softer than other gem materials with a hardness of only 3.5. As a result it should be stored carefully to avoid scratches. Coral is also porous so it should not come into contact with chemicals. To clean it, wipe it gently with a moist soft cloth.

Some Wonderful Coral Jewelry from WhiteFire
	Custom Red Coral Earrings Hand crafted custom red coral earrings set with two beautifully matched 10 x 14mm freshwater cultured pearls and two even colored 11mm cabochon cut, red coral. ($1250.00)		Cultured Pearl Red Coral Earrings These South Sea pearl and red coral earrings are made in 18K yellow gold. ($2270)
	Pearl Turquoise Red Coral Pendant This south sea pearl, turquoise and read coral pendant is made in 14K yellow gold. ($549)		Flush Set Diamond Band Flush set diamond band has ten round brilliant diamonds. ($695)

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