Coral

Coral is an organic gem, formed from the hard skeletons of colonies of tiny marine animals called polyps. Precious coral, the material traditionally used in jewellery, comes from slow-growing species of the genus Corallium. Its branching skeletons are made mainly of calcium carbonate, and their colours range from white through pink, salmon and orange to deep "oxblood" red, coloured by natural carotenoid pigments.

Precious coral grows in the Mediterranean Sea and in the western Pacific around Japan and Taiwan, often at considerable depths. The town of Torre del Greco near Naples has been the centre of coral carving and trading for centuries. Coral has been treasured since prehistoric times and was especially fashionable in Victorian jewellery.

Overharvesting has greatly reduced natural coral colonies, and many species are now protected, with trade in some restricted under international law (CITES). Because natural precious coral is rare and expensive, much of the "coral" sold for beads is something else. Bamboo coral (from a different, faster-growing family) is usually white or grey and dyed red or pink. Sponge coral is a porous red coral that is normally stabilised with resin. "Reconstituted" coral is made from coral powder bonded with resin, and many beads are dyed shell, glass, plastic or dyed stone such as magnesite. Black and gold corals, which are made of a horn-like protein rather than calcium carbonate, are also sold and are protected in many areas.

Coral is soft and sensitive to acids, heat and chemicals, so it needs gentle care.

Coral at a glance

Caring for coral

Coral is soft (3 – 4 on the Mohs scale) and porous, so it scratches easily and can be damaged by acids, chemicals and heat. Wipe it with a soft, damp cloth after wearing and dry it. Never use ultrasonic or steam cleaners, and avoid contact with perfume, hairspray, cosmetics, vinegar, lemon juice and cleaning products. Put coral jewellery on last when dressing. Keep it out of strong sunlight and heat, which can fade the colour, especially in dyed coral. Store separately in a soft pouch.

In folklore

The beliefs below are traditional folklore, included for interest. They are not scientifically proven, and nothing here is medical advice.

Coral has a rich folklore. In Greek myth, coral was formed when Perseus laid the head of Medusa on seaweed and her blood turned it to red stone. The Romans hung coral around children's necks to protect them from danger and illness, and in Italy coral charms are still worn against the evil eye. Coral was once believed to change colour when its wearer was ill. In Hindu astrology red coral is linked with the planet Mars, and among the Yoruba and Bini people of West Africa coral beads are a sign of rank. Coral is the traditional gift for a 35th wedding anniversary.

Coral is traditionally regarded as a stone of protection and life force. Crystal healing lore holds that it brings emotional balance, calm and courage, and that it supports vitality and the circulation. Red coral in particular is associated with passion and energy, and is linked to the root chakra.

Related stones

Bamboo coral, sponge coral, black coral, gold coral and reconstituted coral. Other organic gems include pearl, amber, jet, shell and mother of pearl. Imitations include dyed shell, dyed magnesite or howlite, glass and plastic.

For the technically minded

Shop coral beads

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