Coral A Mineral or Sea Creature

Coral is not a mineral, but the skeleton of sea creatures, thus the organic origin. Developed over many thousands of years, it consists almost entirely of calcium. Coral reefs comprise colonies of marine animals called coral polyps, which form branching structures as they grown. Coral is the skeletal material generated by these sea-dwelling coral polyps. For most corals, this material is calcium carbonate, but in the case of black or golden corals, it is a horn-like substance called conchiolin. Coral has a dull luster when recovered, but can take a bright polish. It is sensitive to even mild acids, and can become dull with extensive wear. Red and pink precious corals are round in the warm seas around Japan and Malaysia, in the Mediterranean, and in African coastal waters. Black coral comes from the West Indies, Australia, and around the Pacific Islands.

Coral is used in carvings and beads, and cut as cabochons for use in jewelry. Red coral appears as an ornament in Western European shields and helmets in the Iron Age, later to be replaced by red enamel. Fossilized coral provides unusual and interesting material in beads, cabochons and pendants. According to Greek legend, coral came from the drops of blood shed when Perseus cut off the head of Medusa. In Classical antiquity, coral was believed to be a protection against the evil eye, and was worn as an amulet. As a medication, it was believed to stop bleeding. In the 18th century, precious coral was widely used as an inlay in Japanese ornamental netsukes. It has been a favorite of Chinese carvers for at least woo millennia.

Red coral is associated with Scorpio, black coral with Capricorn, and pink with Taurus. Coral is cleansed by being left overnight in salt water once a month. It can also be placed dry in sea salt. Coral symbolizes joy and happiness, diplomacy, quieting emotions, and visualization. It enables the wearer to enjoy life. According to legend, it consists of divine blood.


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Research from mineral and crystal books and websites.