Coral has been used in jewellery throughout Europe since the Ancient Roman empire had a grip on much of the continent. Red coral harvested along the Mediterranean coastlines is the most common. This stone can take on pale, peach colours, right the way through to rich, bold red shades. Historically, coral has been revered and used to create a broad range of jewellery styles. It can be carved to create cameos, rounded to form beads, or even completely smoothened into cabochons.

European jewellery designers of the early 20th century Art Deco era used coral extensively as an opportunity to incorporate colour into their pieces. Art Deco jewellery prioritised black gemstones like onyx and jet in contrast with diamonds and cool-toned metal like platinum. Coral, therefore, represented a great way to bring some vibrancy into jewellery.

Coral was harvested for use in jewellery extensively throughout the 20th century. Today, however, the natural supply of coral is significantly diminished because of this over-harvesting. A lot of jewellery houses have chosen not to use coral as a material anymore in an attempt to be more environmentally conscious. One of the biggest benefits of buying antique and vintage jewellery is that it’s much more ethical than choosing to purchase new coral jewellery.

As far as durability goes, coral is exceptionally hard-wearing. The fact that it can be worked into so many intricate designs is an indicator of its durability. It is one gemstone that isn’t likely to be seriously damaged from regular wearing.

Coral is traditionally the wedding anniversary gift for the 35th wedding anniversary. Some people today choose to avoid buying genuine coral gifts in efforts to be greener. Thankfully, antique and coral jewellery is an excellent choice to fulfil the traditional gift theme without having a negative impact on the environment.