
Color:
Most Valuable=Red.
Orange, pink, peach, black, brown,
metallic gold
Clarity: Semi-translucent
to opaque
Optic Character: AGG
Cause
of Color: Organic
Matter (carotenoid)
Fluorescence: Generally
Inert
Fracture
: Splintery to uneven
Luster
: Dull
Cleavage : None
Durability: Fair
Characteristics
for Identification:
Liquid
and phase inclusions, Tubular inclusions
Localities:
Mediteranean Sea, Pacific Ocean, South Seas

|
Coral
Coral is one of the few organic gems. It is the exoskeleton
of colonial polyps. These are small animals that create
their branching homes from calcium carbonate dissolved in
sea water. The colors of gem coral range from a pale pink
(angel-skin) to oranges and reds. Coral has been used throughout
our history; it was pictured on a Summerian vase dated at
3000 BC It was traded between the Mediterranean and India
at the time of the birth of Christ. Coral was introduced
into Mesoamerica by the Spaniards. Native Americans used
it extensively in jewelry. Coral was used in Roman times
to protect children from danger. It is still worn in Italy
today to protect from the evil eye.
Varieties
of Coral:
Red Coral
Pink Angel Skin Coral
White Coral
Black Coral
|
|
|