gemstone
Precious Coral
Corallium rubrum
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 3.5 on the Mohs scale, vibrant red to pinkish-orange color, vitreous to dull luster, and composed mainly of calcium carbonate in the form of calcite.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 3.5 on the Mohs scale, vibrant red to pinkish-orange color, vitreous to dull luster, and composed mainly of calcium carbonate in the form of calcite.
Formation & geological history
Formed by marine colonial invertebrates (polyps) in deep-sea environments over many decades, primarily found in the Mediterranean Sea and Western Pacific.
Uses & applications
Widely used in fine jewelry, carvings, and ornamental beads since antiquity.
Geological facts
Precious coral skeletons grow very slowly, only about 1 millimeter per year, making large harvested specimens quite rare and historically valued as protective amulets.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its organic origin, natural branching structure when raw, and characteristic flame-like patterns on polished beads.
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