CORAL

Museum quality carved coral cameo station bracelet from the Victorian Era

Species:  Calcareous Coral
​​Mohs Hardness:  3 to 4 out of 10
Color:  White, red, orange, pink, gray, cream and black
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:  Dyeing

SHOP CORAL JEWELRY

Coral Facts

Precious red coral, diamonds and rubies are set in this vintage turtle brooch, by Hammerman Brothers

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.

Coral Gallery

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