CORAL

Coral is one of the very few organic gemstones. It consists of a mass of skeletons of tiny marine invertebrates that once lived in a colony attached to rocks or other objects on the ocean floor. The variety of coral that is of interest to jewelers is referred to as “precious coral”. It varies in color from a blood red to a very pale pink. It occurs in tropical and subtropical oceans, usually at a depth of less that 50 feet.

THE HISTORY

Since ancient times, the population surrounding the Mediterranean has used coral decoratively, medicinally and spiritually. It flourishes around the coasts of Morocco, Corsica and Algeria. The Romans hung pieces of coral around the necks of their children to protect them from illness and danger. Worn around a woman’s neck, it was a charm against sterility.

The ancient Chinese viewed coral as a symbol of longevity and official promotion. The ancient Greeks believed coral had the power to counteract witchcraft and protect against storms, poisons and robbery.  Early in the 19th Century, the Navajo named coral one of the eighteen sacred objects, which is why it is common in Native American Jewels and ornaments.

​Red coral is a stone of passion and attracts love and prosperity. Coral fosters creativity and optimism and brings inner peace. Metaphysically, coral is used for general healing, with an emphasis on blood and the circulatory system.

CARING FOR CORAL

Because coral is very soft, it has to be treated with great care. It should be cleaned with a soft, clean cloth, and then rinsed in warm, soapy water. It should never be soaked, nor put in an ultrasonic cleaner.  Always remove all jewelry before swimming, showering, or exercising.