CORAL

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AN ORGANIC GEM, coral is created by living organisms. Small sea creatures called coral polyps live in large colonies, and their secretions (for example, of calcium carbonate in the case of the most notable red corals) form coral in branch-like structures that support the colony. Red coral has been harvested for more than 5,000 years. Its color ranges from pale pink and orange to deep red. Black coral is formed from softer organic materials and forms in less spectacular branch formations than red. However, the collection and trading of many species is currently restricted to prevent overharvesting, and most corals remain vulnerable to changing ecological coastal conditions. Fossilized coral, shown in the photograph above, is also called agatized coral. In the right conditions, unharvested branches can eventually turn into agate like this over millions of years.

Coral has been honored by ancient civilizations since the age of the pharaohs. An ancient Greek legend maintained that coral was created when Perseus severed Medusa’s head—the droplets of blood creating a gift from the gods. Greeks and Romans alike prized the gem, and it was used as an amulet against poisoning and robbery. It was also believed to imbue its wearer with strength of character and unwavering leadership abilities. Arab cultures believed that to bury a loved one without coral left the deceased’s soul highly vulnerable to demons, while Persian culture once maintained that coral was colorless until pulled from the depths of the sea. Cultures throughout history have been devoted to this organic gem, and its association with the sea has been especially honored by people whose existence relies on our great oceans.