Global Gemology - Rare Gems & Jewels
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CORAL

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Mid Victorian Era antique 14K gold-filled bracelet set with 3 large, precious red coral cameos carved in high relief
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

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Vintage Hammerman Brothers turtle brooch featuring precious red coral, diamond and ruby set in 18K gold
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

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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