By Oliva B.
Edited by Brian M.
Published Aug 13, 2024
Edited on Aug 31, 2024
Red coral is trending right now – but is it right for your engagement ring? Find out below…
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If we asked you to make her list of the most valuable and revered gemstones in the world, we like to think we can imagine the big hitters. Diamond for sure, followed by other gemstones like sapphire, ruby, emerald, and topaz…but what about coral?
Most of us know a little about coral. We know that it’s an important organism found in salt water that grows in some pretty spectacular colors and shapes. But did you know that it might be the next big trend in the gemstone world?
Coral gemstones, with their unique organic origin and vibrant hues, have fascinated jewelry lovers for centuries. Unlike traditional gemstones that are mined from the earth, coral gems are formed from the skeletal remains of marine creatures. This gives them a distinct charm and a rich, storied past tied to the ocean’s depths. But how do they stack up against the ever-popular diamond, especially when it comes to engagements?
When considering a coral gemstone for an engagement ring, it’s crucial to apply a unique set of criteria, similar to the 4Cs used for diamonds. These tips will help you make an informed decision, ensuring that your coral gemstone ring is not only beautiful but also of high quality.
Tip 1: Understand Coral Quality
Tip 2: Verify Authenticity
Tip 3: Consider Environmental and Ethical Factors
Tip 4: Metal Setting and Design
Tip 5: Maintenance and Care
Put simply, it’s a stone made from precious coral.
There are a lot of different types of coral out there, but the skeleton of the ‘precious’ or (‘red’) coral is considered to be one of the most desirable. Once the coral has died, that skeleton can be cut and polished into a gemstone.
Coral gemstones tend to be oval or circular, with no faceting. So, while a cut diamond features many of those triangular ‘faces’ that give the surface a very geometric, angular finish, a coral gemstone is much smoother – more like a pebble or piece of sea glass – the closest comparison we have to that type of shape in the diamond world is the rose cut. The faceting is not necessary, as coral doesn’t refract light or sparkle like diamond (more on that below).
Coral gemstones are also known as moonga, which is a term that originated in India. There – and, in fact, in many other parts of the world – it is believed that red coral gemstones hold certain astrological benefits, much like crystals. From emotional balance to warding-off negative energy, there are lots of reasons to wear moonga on a daily basis.
This has been the case for many thousands of years. Back in Ancient Rome, red coral was a popular choice for those looking to protect themselves and their children from danger. That distinctive color was associated with Mars, and it was believed that the coral stones derived strength from the planet.
While diamond is the obvious choice, you wouldn’t be the first person to wonder if a coral gemstone would work wonders in your bride’s engagement ring. Whether she loves the ocean or just adores the colors of coral, here’s what you need to know about considering a coral gemstone for an engagement ring.
Coral gemstones really are beautiful. They come in a beautiful spectrum of colors that range from very soft, delicate, feminine pinks to deep oranges that will evoke memories of the most stunning summertime sunsets in all who look upon them. Part of this seductive appeal lies in the fact that these colors are straight from nature. They have not been engineered in a lab but formed in the raw and fascinating world that lies under the waves.
There are two key areas in which coral gemstones fall short of diamonds. Obviously, there are more differences between the two than there are similarities, but here are the most significant:
There’s no denying that coral gemstones are truly beautiful, and their cultural significance – particularly in India – means that a gift of a precious coral gemstone can represent a very sentimental, beautiful thing.
But, unfortunately, there’s a catch.
As we mentioned above, coral gemstones are much, much weaker than diamond. Not just that, but they’re much weaker than many other gemstones, too – even weaker than gemstones that we recommend shoppers avoid for engagement rings. Why? Because, after a few years – or even a few months – of daily wear, you may just look down and find that the stone has cracked, chipped, or fallen out of the setting completely.
It’s just not worth the disappointment. Remember that, if it breaks, it’s not a simple case of replacing it. The center stone in an engagement ring holds a huge amount of sentimental meaning, and you can’t just switch that out whenever a little damage starts to show.
Coral gemstones are perfect for fine jewelry that is only going to be worn every now and then. What they’re totally wrong for is any item of jewelry that is supposed to last many, many years of near-constant wear. Don’t take the risk, because the chances are you will be disappointed.
Even if you make the (wise) decision not to use red coral for your engagement ring, that’s no reason not to get your partner a gift of coral jewelry. Earrings and necklaces are a great bet since they are less likely to sustain as many knocks and scrapes as a ring.
Caring for red coral jewelry is easy, and very similar to caring for any other piece of fine jewelry.
Find a mild, unscented dish soap, and add a small squeeze of it to a bowl of warm water. Make sure it’s cool enough for you to stick your finger in – if not, it’s too hot!
Let it soak for a few minutes, then let it dry on a towel – try not to rub it, or the fibers may snag on the prongs.
If you’re worried the grime is still building up in the little nooks and crannies, visit a jeweler. They have more advanced cleaning tools and can help you spruce up your favorite pieces.
The key takeaway? Coral isn’t right for an engagement ring, or any piece of jewelry that you want to guarantee will last the test of time. It’s a beautiful gemstone with a lot of history and cultural meaning behind it, but it’s just not right for this sort of fine jewelry piece – no matter how much you love it.
Don’t give up on coral entirely, though – it’s still a great choice for a special piece of jewelry.
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