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Journalism of Courage
Organic in nature, corals come in various hues
Is it our love for studded jewelry, the associated ancient beliefs or inspiring style icons like Grace Kelly clad in a green gown and showstopping orange coral danglers? Well, reasons aplenty but coral8217;s appeal is blatantly evident in almost every jewellery form.
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
