Coral

Description

Key Characteristics of Coral:

• Origin: Coral is not a mineral but an organic gemstone that forms from the hardened skeletons of tiny marine organisms called coral polyps. These creatures live in colonies, and over time, their skeletons accumulate, forming large coral reefs. The color of coral varies depending on the species and the environment in which it grows.
• Color: Coral comes in a range of colors, from deep red and vibrant orange to pale pink and white. The most prized and valuable variety is red coral (also known as Mediterranean coral), but pink coral and white coral are also popular in jewelry. The color intensity and purity can affect the value of the coral.
• Hardness: Coral has a relatively low hardness of 3.5 to 4 on the Mohs scale. This makes it relatively soft and susceptible to scratching and damage compared to other gemstones. As a result, coral jewelry requires careful handling.
• Texture: Coral has a smooth, polished surface that is often shaped into beads, cabochons, or carvings for use in jewelry. Its natural texture can sometimes exhibit small pores or lines, which can add to its unique appearance.
• Clarity: Coral is usually opaque, although some high-quality pieces may have a slight translucence. It is not cut for brilliance but for color and texture. The clarity of coral is typically not a key consideration in evaluating its quality, but uniformity in color is highly valued.