Introduction
Red coral is a type of organic material that is generally found in colors such as pinkish-red, red, and orange. Although it is not a crystal, it is considered an organic gemstone like amber and pearl and we can thank living organisms for forming this gemstone. Talking in terms of biology, coral refers to both the hard exoskeletons of coral polyps and the coral polyp itself (which is a marine animal). Outside biology, the word “coral” can be used to refer to a reddish-orange color.
Red Coral gemstone is one of the oldest gemstones that has been used by mankind for jewelry purposes, and the use of this gemstone for jewelry dates back to prehistoric times. Through this guide, we will discuss what red coral is, how can you identify a real red coral, how you can take proper care of your red coral ring, how you can evaluate a red coral gemstone when you go out to buy a red coral ring and much more. So, without further ado, let's begin with the first question – What is red coral?
What Is Red Coral?
Red coral refers to a species in the Corallidae family that is known for its vivid colors and durability. Although the red coral gemstone is primarily found in colors of orange, pink, and red, you can also find it in a mixture of these three colors. The red coral gemstone rates at about 3.5 on the Mohs Scale of Hardness.
Astrologically, red coral is the star stone for the planet Mars. According to Vedic Astrology, wearing Moonga jewelry (Moonga is the Hindi name for Red Coral) such as a red coral ring can reduce the malefic effects of planet Mars. Apart from this, coral is also considered the traditional gemstone which is gifted to your partner on the 35th wedding anniversary.
Chemically, red coral is a mineraloid that is primarily composed of calcite and aragonite – both of which are forms of calcium carbonate. An interesting fact: red coral gains its signature color from carotenoid pigments in the water. When red coral is freshly harvested out of coral polyps, you will find it to have a matte or dull finish. It’s the later processing (which involves the polishing of these polyps) of this mineraloid that ends up giving red coral a waxy or glass-like luster.
If you think that red coral is used just for jewelry purposes, let us correct you – it is also used to make carvings, figures, statues, etc., and is also designed into beads.
Factors Determining Red Coral’s Value Set in a Red Coral Ring
The price of red coral depends upon the origin of the gemstone, its color, clarity, shape, and carat weight. Let's discuss some of these factors, so you know what to look for when you go out to buy a red coral ring.
Color
Generally, the deeper and darker shades of red coral are considered to be more expensive than the lighter shades of red coral. Ox-blood red or bright red corals command the highest prices in the red coral market. So, when you go out to buy your very first red coral jewelry, ensure that it has an ox-blood red color.
Shape
Red coral is more prone to damage and it can even crack under pressure because it is an organic gemstone. This is why it is bought in cabochon form (which is the polished non-faceted stone) in shapes such as oval, capsule, or triangular. Triangular gemstones are a little bit more expensive because they are scarce.
Clarity
The clarity of red coral is defined by its overall brightness and surface texture because coral is an opaque gemstone. Well-polished, lustrous, and spotless red corals always command higher prices. The red corals that have blemishes, pits, or spots have lower prices.
Carat Weight
Red Corals are generally not found in large sizes. This is why as the weight of the gemstone goes up, its price also rises.
How to Identify a Real Red Coral While Buying a Red Coral Ring?
The status of red coral as an exotic gemstone, and its high demand in the jewelry industry has led to the production of fake coral copies all over the world. Therefore, as a buyer, when you go out to purchase red coral rings, it is extremely important to stay away from counterfeit red corals and identify the real deal. Here are two tests that can help you check the authenticity of your red coral set in your red coral jewelry anywhere.
- Visual Inspection - Because red corals are organic gemstones, they tend to have a matte surface with some imperfections and variations in color. You will notice this as you examine your coral ring closely. Even the most exotic natural red corals will have some or the other inclusions – and through this, you can determine their authenticity. If you ever come across a sample of red coral that is completely spotless or has a silky-smooth surface, assume that it is artificially treated or is entirely fake. Authentic red coral rings will never have a perfect surface.
- The Touch Test - The touch test is a slight modification of the visual inspection test. In this test, you need to feel the surface of your red coral set in your red coral ring. Natural red coral will possess a slightly rough and grainy surface, whereas an imitation of coral that is made up of plastic or glass will feel kind of smooth and slippery. However, there is a word of caution with this method: it will be very hard for you to identify those fake red corals that are made of bones or reconstituted corals.
How To Take Care of Your Red Coral Ring?
It is very important to take crucial care of your red coral ring. Make sure that your red coral ring is not exposed to sunlight or heat for a long time because this can damage the red coral set in the ring. Another thing that you need to make a note of is, that red corals are porous in nature, which is why you need to keep your red coral jewelry away from swimming pools as well as chemicals, especially from those found in makeup and hair products. One particular chemical that can harm the polish and the luster of your red coral is ammonia – so be cautious of products that contain ammonia.
Last but not least, in order to clean your red coral jewelry such as a ring, use a dry, soft cloth. You can use lukewarm water to rinse your red coral ring during cleaning, but make sure that you immediately dry it and never keep it wet. As far as storing your red coral ring goes, store it in a cool, dark place in a soft pouch.
Conclusion
It does not matter whether you have a special liking for red corals because you are drawn to oceans and the vast life present in them, or you find red coral as an alluring gemstone – red coral is a captivating gemstone, and wearing red coral jewelry can add a touch of sophistication to your outfits.
So, are you ready to buy red coral jewelry such as red coral rings, red coral pendants, red coral earrings, red coral bracelets, and red coral necklaces at wholesale rates? If you want to buy any kind of red coral jewelry, head straight to Rananjay Exports – India’s most famous wholesale gemstone jewelry manufacturer and supplier. They also deal in gemstone jewelry in over 250+ natural gemstones, which is why finding other gemstone rings at Rananjay Exports won’t be tough for you either.
So, head to Rananjay Exports now and explore their vast collection of wholesale gemstone jewelry and 925 sterling silver jewelry.
