Precious coral – Harry & Co Jewellery

Habitat and Anatomy

Red corals grow on rocky seabottom with low sedimentation.
They are typically found in dark environments, either in the depths or in dark caverns or crevices.
The original species, C. rubrum, is mainly found in the Mediterranean Sea.
It grows at depths from 10 to 300 meters below sea level.
Other Corallium species are native to the western Pacific, notably around Japan and Taiwan.
Red corals have the shape of small leafless bushes and can grow up to a meter in height.
Their valuable skeleton is composed of intermeshed spicules of hard calcium carbonate.
The skeletal branches are overlaid with soft bright red integument.
The polyps exhibit octameric radial symmetry.
The hard skeleton of red coral branches can be polished to a glassy shine.

Coral was highly prized as a substance believed to have mysterious sacred properties.
It was traded between the Mediterranean and India at the beginning of the 1st millennium.
The belief in coral's charm and medicinal virtues continued throughout the Middle Ages.
The securing of coral fisheries off the African coasts was the object of rivalry among Mediterranean communities.
The coral trade flourished in the town of Torre del Greco in Italy.
Greek mythology explains the origin of coral through the story of Perseus and Medusa.
Coral is associated with the planet Mars in Hindu astrology.
Red coral is prominently featured in the civic coat of arms of the town of Alghero, Italy.
Coral is mentioned as one of the gems in paradise in Islam.
Red precious coral jewelry is a signifier of high social rank among the Yoruba and Bini peoples of West Africa.

Intensive fishing, particularly in shallow waters, has damaged red coral populations along the Mediterranean coastline.
Fishing and climate change threaten the persistence of red corals.
Marine protected areas have helped in the conservation of red coral colonies.
Banyuls, Carry-le-Rouet, and Scandola, all host substantial populations of C. rubrum.
Since protection was established, colonies have grown in size and number at shallow and deeper depths.
The establishment of marine protected areas has contributed to the conservation of red coral and other marine species.
Sustainable harvesting practices and regulations are necessary to prevent overexploitation of coral resources.
Climate change and ocean acidification pose significant threats to coral reefs worldwide.
Collaboration between scientists, policymakers, and local communities is crucial for the long-term conservation of coral and the sustainability of marine ecosystems.

Precious coral has been used for jewelry and decorative purposes for centuries.
It has been mentioned in ancient texts, such as Ovid's Metamorphoses.
Coral fishing and the creation of coral artifacts have a long history, particularly in places like Malta.
The significance of coral goes beyond its aesthetic value, as it has been considered apotropaic, medical, and symbolic.
The use of coral in jewelry became popular during the Victorian era.

Precious coral is found in various parts of the world, including the Mediterranean Sea.
It is a marine invertebrate that forms colonies and builds complex structures.
The harvesting of coral for commercial purposes can have negative ecological impacts.
Marine protected areas have been established to conserve red coral and other long-lived marine invertebrates.
The conservation of coral is important for maintaining biodiversity and the health of marine ecosystems.
Coral has cultural significance in different societies and has been used in traditional jewelry and adornments.
In some cultures, it is believed to have protective and healing properties.
Coral has been associated with fertility, prosperity, and good luck in certain traditions.
It has been used in religious ceremonies and as a symbol of wealth and social status.
The color of coral, particularly red coral, is often associated with passion, energy, and vitality.
Precious coral is highly valued for its vibrant colors and unique texture, making it a popular choice for jewelry.
Coral jewelry can range from delicate pieces to bold statement accessories.
The use of coral in fashion has evolved over time, reflecting changing trends and styles.
Coral beads, cabochons, and carvings are commonly used in jewelry design.
Coral can be paired with other gemstones and metals to create stunning and versatile pieces.

Reference	URL
Glossary	https://harryandcojewellery.com.au/blogs/glossary/precious-coral
Wikipedia	http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Precious_coral
Wikidata	https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q531601
Knowledge Graph	https://www.google.com/search?kgmid=/m/02phcvy