Coral, the only gemstone of underwater origin, derived from the skeleton of a particular coral polyp called Corralium Rubrum, has since long been the favorite stone of women and men since around 7000 years and has lent its name to not just gemstone but a variety of shades of red now known specifically by their coral hues. That said, buying coral jewelry, specifically coral chip bracelet requires some research and info before taking the plunge and sealing the deal. Here are some things to be taken into consideration while buying a coral chip bracelet:-
How to differentiate an original coral bracelet from a fake one
Original coral is available only in the Mediterranean ocean and parts of Japan and Taiwan, making it a relatively inexpensive but rare gemstone. Due to the increasing demand for coral jewelry in the market, many fakes made of glass and seashells are readily available as well. There are a lot of ways of differentiating original coral from a fake one, some of them being by immersing the gemstone in vinegar or turmeric mediums and noticing the color change if any. But the easiest way is to search for bubbling on the surface. A fake coral may have some bubbling on its surface because of its glass, but the surface of an original coral will always be smooth and even.
What is the color that you want?
Though red is the most sought-after color, coral gemstone comes in a variety of hues from white to pink to the most vibrant of reds and even golden and sometimes the rarest of blacks. It is to be remembered while buying a coral bracelet that because of the unavailability of conchi coral and the cracks formed in calcareous coral its inferior versions, it is treated with red color to make it look more attractive; which, while solving its purpose, decreases its value because of addition of external elements to it. Red shades of coral are mined from Japan and, along with white corals, are popular among brunettes, while pink shades of coral are mined from Sicily and are popular among the blondes. It is a myth that coral can only be in shades of red, and we should be fully aware of its lighter shades while buying a coral bracelet
What is its cost
Depending on the origin, color and clarity of the gemstone, the price of an original coral bracelet can range from 30$ to 1500$. Of course, fakes can be obtained at a much lower price, but some unscrupulous dealers try to sell the fake coral bracelets at original prices, so care must be taken to check their authenticity before sealing the deal. An important point to be taken into consideration is that coral in itself is not a very expensive gemstone but, when set with other stones like diamonds or in a gold or silver base, greatly increases its price. The price of Antique coral bracelets is even higher, starting at 2000$ and going upwards depending on its antiquity. Proper research is extremely important in this case before making a valuable purchase.
How to take care of it
Coral-like turquoise is a very soft organic gemstone with a moh of 3-4. The moh of our fingernails being 2.5 explains how soft it is, and thus, cleaning it is of utmost importance lest it gets scratched. It should be rinsed in warm water and cleaned with a clean, soft cloth. Never soak them in water or other soaking agents as coral is a porous gemstone, and water and other chemicals can destroy the structure of the gemstone or cause it to lose its color and shine. Never go out in the sun or sunbathe wearing it as the harsh heat may cause it to lose its shine permanently. The proper care bestowed on them increases their lifespan and makes wearing them an enjoyable experience forus.
Is there a specific way of storing it?
Coral jewelry is very soft in texture and should be stored away from other jewelry to prevent it from getting scratched. A cotton pouch is ideally the best material to store coral bracelets in. Another factor to be considered while storing coral bracelets is to allow them to dry at room temperature before storing them so as prevent fungus from growing on the silver or gold base and tarnishing its surface
Where to buy it?
Due to extensive coral mining, a lot of damage has been caused to the coral reefs, making many countries pass coral laws. In a bid to help conserve coral, fashion brands like Tiffany have stopped using coral in their jewelry since 1992. It is to be noted that only specific places are permitted to sell coral by law, with Australian countries having the permit for black coral and China having the permit for red coral. The bracelets available online have a higher chance of not being genuine because of their lower price and the extremely reduced availability of authentic coral. A trusted, reliable source is the best place for buying coral jewelry to ensure a good purchase.
Coral, for ages, has been used as jewelry and also has been in high demand for its healing properties dating its use to as old as 1000 years back. Proper research and a practical approach while buying coral is the best way of getting an authentic coral chip bracelet that can be a beautiful part of your collection and make memories with you last a lifetime.
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