mineral

White Coral

Corallium rubrum (biocarbonate calcium) / CaCO3

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 3.5-4.0 (Mohs scale), Color: Creamy white to pure white, Luster: Vitreous to dull, Crystal structure: Amorphous/microcrystalline, Cleavage: None, Specific Gravity: 2.6 - 2.7

Hardness: 3

Identified March 14, 2026More mineral →

Explore White Coral in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 3.5-4.0 (Mohs scale), Color: Creamy white to pure white, Luster: Vitreous to dull, Crystal structure: Amorphous/microcrystalline, Cleavage: None, Specific Gravity: 2.6 - 2.7

Formation & geological history

Formed by marine organisms (polyps) secreting calcium carbonate skeletons in tropical to subtropical shallow marine environments during the Holocene epoch.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in jewelry (beads, cabochons), traditional medicine in some cultures, and as collector specimens for marine biology and gemology.

Geological facts

Organic gemstone like ivory and pearl. Ancient civilizations believed white coral could ward off bad spirits and improve physical strength.

Field identification & locations

Identify by looking for a faint wood-grain pattern (growth lines) or small pits. Common in the Indo-Pacific, Great Barrier Reef, and Mediterranean Sea. Collectors should check for dye or resin coatings.