Coral Jewelry , Treasures from the Sea

Antique Carved Coral and Cloisonne Ring

https://www.etsy.com/listing/153258994/antique-ring-coral-and-cloisonne?ref=shop_home_active

Coral is one of four organic gems, the others being pearl, amber and jet. Colors of coral range from white to red and sometimes pink and white, and black. The most valuable corals are red, black and pink. Most coral is quite soft and, therefore, needs to be treated gently, especially when worn as a ring. Being comprised of calcium carbonate it can easily dissolve in acids so it should be kept away from even gentle acids such as lemon juice or vinegar.  In fact, touching lemon juice to coral is a simple test to determine its authenticity. If it is coral the lemon juice will begin to dissolve it. This test should be performed with caution on the underside of a piece to prevent ruining a lovely piece of  jewelry. 

Red coral is the most desirable and most expensive type of coral. It  can be found in the Mediterranean and in the Atlantic Ocean coastal regions of Portugal and Northern Africa. Other types of coral can be found all over the world, including the Great Barrier Reef of the east coast of Australia.  Most coral, because of the associations with the reefs hold a prominent place on the endangered list.

Coral jewelry has a prominent place in the history of jewelry and it has been a favorite since ancient times, dating to the Iron Age. Coral also plays an important role in religious history, and there are may myths and tales associated with coral. It was once believed that a piece of coral carried on a ship could protect against lightning. It was also thought to drive evil out of a home. Coral was also associated with the Greek goddess Minerva and was thought to have special powers against witchcraft, poison and robbery. Marco Polo's writings about coral may have triggered the craze for coral in ancient Rome where it was often beautifully carved and paired with gold in fabulous jewelry.

Today, the deep red Mediterranean coral, known as oxblood coral because of its color, is the most sought after and is bringing premium prices. Salmon color coral is also coveted. While antique jewelry is made of natural sea coral in its natural color, today's coral may be dyed to emulate the coral of earlier times. It is still very attractive but should be priced at a much lower cost than untreated coral.