Coral
Life Gems from the Garden of the Deep.
📜 History and Stories
Coral is one of the oldest talismans of mankind, dating back to prehistoric times. The ancient Romans believed that wearing coral would protect children from harm and wore it around their necks to ward off evil. In many cultures, red coral is seen as a symbol of life, blood and strength.
In the East, coral is one of the Seven Jewels of Buddhism, representing good fortune and wealth. During the Qing Dynasty, red coral was only worn by officials of the second rank and above, and was a symbol of power and status.
🌍 Major Origin Distribution
Gem-quality, precious coral grows in the murky depths of the sea. The Mediterranean Sea is the oldest producer of red coral, especially off the Italian island of Sardinia. Today, the Pacific region, including the waters off Japan, Taiwan and the Philippines, is the main source of top quality red corals (such as Akka red corals) and pink corals.
📍 Explore Aka Red Coral Origin: Kochi, Japan🔬 Gemological Properties
| characterization | descriptive |
|---|---|
| Category | Organic Gems |
| source | Calcium skeleton of coral polyps |
| Chemical composition | Calcium carbonate `(CaCO₃)` |
| Mohs hardness | 3 - 4 |
| Key Features | Natural growth texture, fine texture |
Coral vs.
🌊 The Crystallization of Life
Gem grade coral is formed by the slow growth of calcareous skeletons secreted by coral polyps that live hundreds or even thousands of meters deep in the sea. The extremely slow growth rate is what makes top quality red coral so valuable.
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coral polyps
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Calcium carbonate secreting bones
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Formation of coral trees
💰 Different quality grades and values
The value of coral is determined primarily by its color, texture, size and flaws.
1. Color
The most important factor. The redder and more uniform the color, the higher the value. AKA is the most precious color.
2. Texture
The texture should be fine and even, with no visible growth lines or white cores.
3. Clarity
The surface should be smooth and free of cracks, holes or stress lines.
4. Size
Large sizes of fine coral material are very rare and highly valued.
The value ladder of different varieties
From the common MOMO coral to the extremely rare Oxblood Red Aka coral, the value of different coral species and colors varies greatly.
💖 Symbolism
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Life and Passion
Its red color symbolizes vitality, passion and love.
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Auspiciousness and Protection from Evil
It is believed to bring good luck, ward off evil and protect the wearer.
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Wealth and Power
In ancient times it was a symbol of wealth and high status.
🛡️ Care and Wear
Coral is a delicate organic gemstone with a low hardness and porous nature that is very sensitive to chemicals and requires extreme care.
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Stay away from chemicals
Avoid contact with sweat, perfume and acids.
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Avoid scratching
Low hardness and should be stored separately.
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Avoid sun exposure
Prolonged exposure to the sun will cause it to lose its luster.
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Gentle and clean
Wipe with water and a soft cloth, then apply baby oil to maintain.
👑 royalty and art
Coral featured prominently in Victorian and Art Nouveau jewelry, often carved into exquisite cameos and ornaments. Today, the finest red corals are highly sought after in Asia and are prized in fine jewelry and collections. Many fine jewelry brands, such as Cartier, also use coral as an embellishment in their classic designs.