1. What is coral?
Coral is a marine organism that forms colonies of calcareous skeletons. The corals used in jewelry are fossilized or hard remains of these skeletons, extracted primarily from the Mediterranean, Pacific, and Indian Oceans.
2. Common types of coral in jewelry
• Red coral (Corallium rubrum): Highly prized for its deep red or orange-red color. Traditional to the Mediterranean.
• White coral: Creamy or pure white. Rarer and more delicate.
• Bamboo coral: With natural bands reminiscent of bamboo, widely used in Asian crafts.
• Black coral: Dark tones, less common, valued for its rarity.
3. Physical properties
• Composed mainly of calcium carbonate.
• Light and relatively soft (hardness 3-4 on the Mohs scale).
• Porous, sensitive to acids and heat.
4. Energy properties and traditional uses
• Protection against bad energies and the “evil eye.”
• It is used in amulets, talismans and rosaries.
• Associated with vitality, passion and connection with nature.
5. How to identify natural coral
• Color with variations and veins.
• Porous texture visible with a magnifying glass.
• Does not stain when rubbed with alcohol.
• Light weight yet cool to the touch.
6. Differentiate natural coral from imitations
• Common imitations: plastic, resin, glass, or dyed coral.
• Imitations usually have a uniform color, artificial shine and lack natural pores.
• Alcohol test to detect dyes.
7. Care and maintenance
• Avoid contact with acids, perfumes, excessive heat.
• Clean with a soft, damp cloth.
• Store separately to avoid scratches.
8. Uses in jewelry and crafts
• Necklaces, bracelets, rings, earrings.
• Pieces of art and decoration.
• Symbolic use in different cultures (Mediterranean, Asia, America).
