Coral Gemstones – An Organic Gemstone

Red Coral Ring

Like pearls, coral gemstones are considered “organic” gemstones.   The interesting thing is that when someone says “coral” many people immediately think of the Great Barrier Reefs off Australia.  The coral used to make jewelry isn’t the same type of coral found in the Great Barrier Reef.  It is usually from a difference species of coral that is found in the Mediterranean Sea or in the Pacific Ocean off Japan or Taiwan.   The coral used today in jewelry is harvested in a more environmentally friendly way by deep-sea divers collecting the branches of coral by hand rather than by the old fashioned drag net method.

Colors of Coral

Red and Pink Coral

The most valuable colors of coral are red, pale pink (also known as angel skin coral) and believe it or not, black coral.  Black coral is sometimes bleached to produce a golden color.  Good quality coral should be even overall in color without “inclusion” like cracks, spots or cavities.  Completely natural untreated coral is very, very rare therefore it can be expensive. 

Coral Jewelry Is Always In Style
Coral has been used in jewelry for thousands of years.   Many believe that pink or red color of coral is one of the most flattering colors a woman can wear.  Many believe wearing coral will bring a glow to a woman of any skin color and they would probably be right.

Coral is exquisite when set with pearls or white opals and accented with small diamonds.  Coral is used in Native American jewelry either set inlayed or bezel set and used with turquoise, opal or other gemstones.  Coral can also be found in exquisite elaborate Tibetan or Balinese jewelry designs in sterling silver.  While most often found set in sterling silver, coral set in yellow gold has an especially rich look. Many cultures have used coral in their jewelry.

Gold Gemstone Jewelry

Red, Pink Coral w/Opal / Diamond

Create your own beautiful coral jewelry that reflects your sense of style with coral and other gemstones from AfricaGems.com.  We are pleased to offer both red and angel skin (pink) coral for your selection in several shapes and many calibrated sizes.  And we carry turquoise, diamonds and other gemstones that would work beautifully with coral purchased from AfricaGems.com. And we can help design your special coral earrings, pendant or ring.  Just let us know how we can help.