gemstone

Red coral cabochon (likely dyed or reconstructed coral)

Corallium rubrum or other calcareous coral; chiefly aragonite (CaCO₃)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Opaque vivid red, polished cabochon with waxy-to-glassy luster; Mohs hardness about 3–4, specific gravity roughly 2.6–2.7. The pale interior, pits, and uneven red coating suggest dyed, filled, or reconstructed coral rather than uniform natural gem coral.

Identified September 12, 2026More gemstone →

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At a glance

Common name: Red coral cabochon (likely dyed or reconstructed coral)
Scientific name: Corallium rubrum or other calcareous coral; chiefly aragonite (CaCO₃)
Category: gemstone
Identified: September 12, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $5–$30 for common dyed/reconstructed pieces; $30–$150+ for verified natural red-coral cabochons, depending on origin, color, size, and legality.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Coral skeletons form in marine colonies from calcium-carbonate secretion, commonly in shallow tropical or Mediterranean waters; red precious coral grows slowly over centuries. The specimen is human-cut and polished, possibly dyed or lacquer-coated.

Uses & applications

Used for beads, cabochons, carvings, and jewelry; historically valued as an organic gemstone. It is generally less durable than quartz and can scratch or discolor with acids, heat, and chemicals.

Geological facts

Coral is an animal-derived biomineral, not a mineral crystal or conventional rock. Natural precious coral often shows fine longitudinal growth structure and is protected or regulated in many regions.

Field identification & locations

Check with magnification for branching growth lines, pores, and a color layer; a hot needle, acid, or destructive tests should be avoided. Common sources include the Mediterranean, Japan, Taiwan, and the western Pacific.