Coral Charm

Coral is an ancient 8220;organic gemstone8221;. Its actually a calcium substance that grows under water in plant like formations or branches. Coral is opaque and is naturally available in various colours. Colour distribution is even or a shaded effect of the same hue. Nonetheless, good quality coral is devoid of any dents, dimples, holes, cracks or perforations. Today, coral is majorly sourced from the Mediterranean Sea, off the coast of Algeria, Taiwan, Japan and Tunisia. Coral is available in various colours. Red, orange, black, purple, white, pink and gold are always in demand. Red coral grows about 1/4 inch per year and hence is highly treasured. The 8216;Oxblood Red Coral8217; is the most sought after in this category. 8216;Angel Skin Pink Coral8217; variates from white to a lovely blush and is a collector8217;s delight. 8216;Gold Coral8217; ranges from buttery hues to deep chocolate. High quality coral sells as high as gold by weight. A coral admirer must visit the Coral Castle in America built single handed by Ed Leedskalnim in 28 years for his love for the gemstone.

Coral has been enjoyed for at least 25,000 years. For Egyptians it was a holy stone and was used in most burial ceremonies. Romans wore protective coral amulets. Coral is one of the seven treasures found in the Buddhist scriptures. Many cultures believed in its medicinal properties. It was believed to prevent abortions, excessive bleeding, impotency and stomach viruses. Coral has been beaded and strung over centuries and sparkled in various design sensibilities, may it be Victorian setting, jadau jewellery, the Indian Navratna or set along other gemstones. Being a fragile stone it is best set in bezel set down and bigger pieces may be supported from the rare side. Being an expensive gemstone one must be careful of imitations. Coloured shells, bones, plastic, porcelain etc is often sold as coral. Here8217;s a simple test: Immersed coral in milk makes the milk appear pink or red. Imitation will give no colour!

The writer is a city-based researcher specialising in jewellery art and can be contacted at sameeraahaan02gmail.com