Often referred to as The Diamond Of The Sea, coral has quickly become a preferred material for jewelry. Coral pieces are usually set in either silver or gold and can be made into everything from rings and brooches to bracelets and necklaces.

One of the biggest things you should be aware of when purchasing coral jewelry is that the price point is pretty high. While there are some coral farms, most coral used in jewelry comes directly from the sea, where it grows at its own pace. Depending on the type of coral and how big it gets before its plucked out of the water, it can take 10,000 years to reach its growing point.

The guide below can help you learn more about the different kinds of coral as you begin your search for coral jewelry to add to your collection: 

Pure Red Coral

Pure red coral, also known as oxblood or fire coral, is a deep, rich red coral. One of the rarest types of coral, pure red coral is in high demand for jewelry. Because of this, you can expect to invest a significant amount of money in a piece of red coral jewelry. However, be cautious that you aren't being cheated, as some jewelry manufacturers will dye a cheaper form of coral and pass it off as pure red.

Black Coral

Black coral grows in a tree-shaped pattern, and it doesn't become black until it's harvested. Like red coral, black coral is extremely rare, and it grows at an incredibly slow pace. Black coral was once harvested in and around Mexico and the Caribbean, but that practice has ended. That means that if you're on the lookout for black coral jewelry, you'll need to look for vintage pieces. 

Angel Skin Coral

Angel Skin is a pinkish coral, and like black and red coral, it's very rare. It grows primarily in the South Pacific, and few commercial companies harvest it or make jewelry from it. Because of this, you can expect a high price for jewelry featuring Angel Skin coral. 

Bamboo Coral

More commonly called sea bamboo, bamboo coral grows in several parts of the ocean and is very common -- which makes it perfect for jewelry. Not only is it readily available to artists and manufacturers to create jewelry pieces, but these pieces are also available to buyers at a much more affordable price.

However, bamboo coral is somewhat boring in its natural state and color. Jewelry designers will often combine it with other materials or colors, dye it, or turn it into beads in order to create exciting, unique pieces with it. 

Stimulated Coral

Some jewelry is made from a simulated type of coral - which isn't coral at all.  Instead, these created pieces are made from other materials like bone, plastic, and resin.

If you are interested in selling your used jewelry or have questions, visit Ralph Mueller & Associates or call 480.949.9229.