Coral is a marine organism with unique and surprising characteristics. It comes in different shapes, colors and sizes and can be found in all the oceans of the world. Its deposits range from a few meters deep to hundreds of meters below sea level. Coral, due to its physical characteristics, is also one of the most used raw materials in the jewelery industry.
Coral jewels have always been appreciated mainly for their brilliant colour. In fact, coral has been used by man since ancient times, both as an ornament and as a tool for traditional medicine. Coral has a long history as a symbol in different cultures. In general, the meaning of coral is to be seen as a symbol of protection, luck, prosperity and beauty. Since ancient times, coral has also been considered a talisman of protection against the evil eye and evil forces. In fact, it was believed that coral could help repel evil spirits and maintain health and safety. Furthermore, in many cultures, coral is associated with beauty and elegance.
Coral jewels have always been considered particularly attractive and worn as a symbol of prestige and social status. Furthermore, especially in recent times, the meaning of coral has also become a symbol of resistance and adaptation. In fact, coral reefs are able to survive in extreme environments and to regenerate after catastrophic events, such as hurricanes. This ability to resist and adapt to challenges is a symbol of hope and perseverance for many people.
The meaning of coral through history
It is no exaggeration to say that coral has always been associated with female beauty, and for this reason it is used in the making of jewellery. Red coral in particular has always been admired for its vibrant color and attention-grabbing ability. For this reason it has been favored to create jewelery and decorative objects since ancient times. For example, the significance of coral in ancient Greek and Roman civilizations was to protect ships from shipwreck and homes from natural disasters. Additionally, coral was often used in ancient medicine as a remedy for diseases such as malaria, epilepsy, and inflammation.
During the Renaissance, coral became a symbol of prestige and social status. Noble women wore coral jewelry to show their wealth and power. While men used coral to decorate their buildings and their works of art. Additionally, coral was used in the production of religious objects, such as crosses and rosaries, to symbolize the Christian faith.
The different types of coral
For every type of woman’s personality there is a type of coral able to underline its main characteristics. With coral, particularly the red one, necklaces, bracelets and rings were made with different meanings:
- Red coral is an indication of temperament and passion
- Pink coral has a value linked to stability and the care of loved ones
Basically, however, the main value of the meaning of the coral is to augur well and to bring good luck. Especially in our western culture the color red, of the most widespread type, has been associated with the blood of Christ and therefore ideal against evil. The increasingly sophisticated techniques of processing, smooth or engraved, allow the creation of jewels that are real works of art. Thus allowing to accompany the evolution of tastes and fashions by creating always trendy jewels. Suitable for any type of occasion or ceremony, from the more formal ones to everyday life.