Mineraloid (Organic Gemstone)
Red Coral
Corallium rubrum (Calcium Carbonate, CaCO3 with Carotenoid pigments)
Hardness: 3.5-4 Mohs; Color: Orangered to deep red with white patterns; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline); Specific gravity: 2.6-2.7
- Hardness
- 3
- Color
- Orangered to deep red with white patterns
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 3.5-4 Mohs; Color: Orangered to deep red with white patterns; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline); Specific gravity: 2.6-2.7
Formation & geological history
Formed from the skeletal remains of marine polyps in subtropical/tropical deep-sea environments. Growth is very slow, taking decades to form harvestable branches.
Uses & applications
Primary use is in jewelry (cabochons and beads). Historically used in amulets and traditional medicine in various cultures.
Geological facts
Red coral is known as 'Moonga' in Vedic astrology and is associated with the planet Mars. It is organic, meaning it was created by a living organism rather than a geological process.
Field identification & locations
Identify by looking for faint wood-grain-like growth patterns and small pits or 'pores'. Locations: Mediterranean Sea, Sea of Japan, and near Taiwan.
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