Rock Coral

November 15th, 2008 admin Leave a comment Go to comments

Rock Coral

Coral - the Gift of Fashion From the Sea

Coral and pearls have the unique distinction of being “organic” gemstones. Unlike most gemstones that are rocks or minerals, both coral and pearls are created by living creatures. In fact, coral is the skeletal remains of sea creatures. As the organic matter is slowly replaced by calcium carbonate, the coral grows in formations that resemble the limbs of trees. The process of replacing the organic matter with calcium carbonate is called “calcification”. The formation remains attached to the ocean floor or other objects on the sea bottom. Old shipwrecks, for example, often serve as good hosts for coral formations. Under favorable conditions, and if allowed to grow without hindrance, the main coral stem can grow to two inches in diameter. Corals of this size are quite rare, though. Jewelry grade coral is found in the Mediterranean Sea, and in the Pacific Ocean off the Japanese and Taiwanese coasts. Several organic bodies including jellyfish and some mollusks can form corals. It is important to note however, that only certain species of coral with internal structures can be used in the manufacture of jewelry. Specifically, the “Corallium rubrum” and “Corallium japonicum” are used in jewelry making.

Ancient records show that coral has been used for making jewelry and other decorative items for thousands of years. As a gemstone, coral is soft, and therefore relatively easy to work with. It comes in a wide range of colors, and the range of jewelry that can be made using this gemstone is limited only by the imagination and creativity of the jewelry designers. Coral is found in several colors including red, pink, white, orange and yellow. The deep red colored specimens are most popular for jewelry making. In general, the darker colored corals grow in clear, shallower waters. Coral that develop in deeper waters tend to be lighter in color. Black coral is quite rare and unique, and is particularly popular in jewelry making. Black coral has been harvested in the waters off Hawaii and Mexico. In recent times though, the supply from Mexico has dwindled to virtually nothing. Natural, untreated coral has a dull, matte finish. With proper polishing however, gem-grade coral can achieve a high shine. Coral is cut into beads to be used in jewelry. In some instances, coral dust may be reconstituted to form jewelry. Depending on the quality of the original stone, its appearance may be enhanced through surficial treatments and dyes.

There are several myths and legends associated with coral. Red coral is said to strengthen Mars in the horoscope. Coral is believed to improve the spiritual, physical, and financial wellbeing of the wearer. Ancient Romans believed that this stone protected their children, and was capable of curing several diseases and illnesses. It is important to note the environmental impacts of coral jewelry. Coral in the sea grow at extremely slow rates. The over-harvesting of coral for jewelry has decimated several coral formations world-wide. Global climate change has exacerbated this condition. In response to this destruction of natural coral reefs, several countries have imposed restrictions on the trade and use of coral. Japan, for example, imposes strict quotas. The US has instituted special permits to control the import of coral into the country.

About the Author

Dale is a geo-professional in the Southwestern United States, and an avid and amateur gemmologist and a silver jewelry buff.