Global Gemology - Rare Gems & Jewels
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aNGELSKIN CORAL

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Vintage 18K gold designer ring set with carved angelskin coral and turquoise
Carved angelskin coral and turquoise ring
Species:  Calcareous Coral
​​Mohs Hardness:  3 to 4 out of 10
Color:  Pink to white with subtle pink mottling
RI:  1.486 to 1.658
Birefringence:  0.172 (birefringence blink)
SR/DR/AGG:  AGG
Fluorescence:  Varies
SG:  2.65 (+/-0.05)
Routine Treatments:  None
Additional Enhancements:  Bleaching, dyeing, waxing
SHOP CORAL JEWELRY

angelskin Coral Facts

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18K gold, angelskin coral and green enamel ring
Angelskin coral ring with green enamel detailing

Coral is a living marine organism that forms in branch-like structures in tropical and sub-tropical ocean waters.  When the coral polyps die, a dull, hardened skeleton remains that is polished to a waxy luster.


Coral is an organic gem that has been cherished for thousands of years, having been unearthed from Egyptian tombs and ancient European burial grounds!


Hand-carved coral cameos were popular during the Georgian and Victorian Eras (circa the 18th & 19th Centuries) and are still prized by knowledgeable collectors today.

Most coral is white to cream in color.  However, coral occurs naturally in several other colors:

• Red Coral - Also known as precious coral.  The most valuable coral falls within the red to pink color range.

• Angelskin Coral - Nearly white in color, with a hint of pink or peach.  Angelskin coral is the next most valuable color of coral.

• Black Coral - Dark brown or black coral also occurs naturally, and is actually the official state gem of Hawaii.

• Orange, Golden, Blue, and Lavender are several other examples of natural coral colors.

angelskin Coral Gallery

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All photos courtesy of Scott Papper, GIA GG, AJP, CMA (NAJA)

  • HOME
  • ABOUT
  • SHOP
  • SERVICES
    • APPRAISALS
    • EXPERT WITNESS TESTIMONY
    • SELL YOUR JEWELRY
  • GEMOLOGY
    • GEM ENCYCLOPEDIA
    • THE ART OF GEMOLOGY
  • JEWELRY EDUCATION
    • DIAMOND FACTS
    • JEWELER DIRECTORY
    • JEWELRY PERIODS
    • POCKET WATCHES
    • NATIVE AMERICAN JEWELRY
  • GLOSSARY