For ages, coral has been believed to be a talisman against evil spirits and harbinger of good health and prosperity.

Corals are organic substances that consist of the skeletons of certain polyps or marine invertebrates. Millions of polyps build their skeletons (made of calcium carbonate with a trace of carotene) on the abandoned remains of other polyps, creating the massive coral reefs that carpet the planet's ocean floors.

The intensity and quality of coral color increases with depth, but coral is very sensitive and can breed only in water temperatures between 13 and 16 degrees Celsius.

Corals are known to grow in deep submarine colonies at a slow pace. Corals of excellent quality are found in the Bay of Biscay, Cape de Verde Islands and the waters of the Mediterranean, Red Sea, Southern Island and Japan.

Coral jewelry from Italy is well known the world over. From brooches, pendants and earrings to belt buckles and pillboxes, coral jewelry is very popular. Corals also find their way into religious jewelry of India and China as well as rosaries and necklaces. Coral jewelry found pride of place among native Navajo and Zuni silversmiths.

Coral jewelry has a huge and growing market and coral reefs are becoming endangered. They are threatened by rapidly warming ocean waters, harmful bacteria, pollution, and destructive fishing methods. The availability of new coral is dwindling as underwater supplies are depleted. Some coral jewelry may contain specimens that have been bleached and dyed. 

Care....
High quality corals are expensive. Corals will get damaged if immersed in water for too long. The water may also dull the polish of the coral making it look lackluster and unattractive.

Coral is softer than other gemstones and is easily susceptible to scratches.  It measures only 3.5 on the Mohs scale and the splendor of the coral will diminish if not taken care of.

Since it is a porous gemstone, it must be kept away from chemicals.**

·  Ensure that coral jewelry is stored separately in pouches so that they do not get scratched.

·  If any of the corals are loose, visit the jeweler and fix them immediately.

·  Restring corals in necklaces professionally.

·  Refrain from using harsh cosmetics or sprays along with coral jewelry as they can damage the gemstones.

·  Clean coral jewelry with a soft damp cloth.  

 **Because it is composed of calcium carbonate, coral will effervesce if touched with acid.** 
 

Red coral jewelry...
Red corals or Corallium Japonicum have been around for centuries. They are highly treasured gemstones and red coral jewelry is extremely popular. Red coral jewelry is most popular since the hardness and beautiful hue of the red coral holds everyone in its spell.
Rich red corals are found in the Mediterranean coast as well as the Gulf of Naples near Genoa. Oxblood red is one of the most valued in red coral jewelry.

Red coral jewelry is said to be associated with the planet Mars and said to cool the fiery natures in people born under its influence.