The coral necklace has a rich history in many cultures. Coral is one of the oldest materials used in the construction of necklaces, and the color of coral communicates different meanings in different parts of the world. Throughout history coral has been a common element in jewelry designs, and continues to be a popular choice today as well.
Perhaps the most common type of necklace is that which features branch coral. Branch coral is the type of coral style necklace with which most people are familiar. These types of coral necklaces can be single or multiple strands and often contain coral or very bright colors. Some are pure, naturally occurring colors, while other coral has been manipulated to take on a particular hue or cast.
The branch coral necklace contains hundreds of irregular coral pieces, strung on a fiber or thread. These pieces are relatively similar in size and shape but are not perfected to take on a beadlike appearance. Each coral piece if unique, making each necklace a one of a kind item.
The red coral necklace holds special significance among the American Indians of the southwest. It denotes prominence and success. The red coral found in the American southwest originated in the Mediterranean, transported to the America’s by the Spanish and other Europeans. Antique red coral from the southwest usually prices very highly at auction as the Mediterranean coral is rare these days.
The red coral found along the coast of Italy in particular was at one time thought to be so large that it could withstand frequent and heavy harvesting. The supply dwindled due to overly ambitious use, making red coral among the rarest varieties on the market today. For this reason, necklaces of red coral are more expensive than most other varieties.
The most common variety of coral is white, making white coral necklaces easy to come by. They are the least expensive and are often used to create other shades of necklaces as well. White coral is manipulated to take on any variety of colors to create a wide array of necklaces.
Pink coral is probably the second most prolific variety that can be found. Shades of pink range from a light peach color to a dark maroon-like shade, and the pink coral necklace is a very popular choice. These necklaces can be found in the branch coral style, but are often found in more formal styles as well. Pink coral is rounded into perfect beads, taking on a similar appearance to pearls.
The stone-like quality of coral makes it a very durable as well as beautiful material for jewelry making. The coral necklace can take on many styles. A coral bead necklace can take the form of standard round beads, intricately shaped by hand, or mechanically manipulated. Long slender bugle beads are also common. Rice shaped beads made from coral are frequently used as well. The finest coral jewelry is that which is created by individual craftsmanship, resulting in unique one of a kind piece.
An antique coral necklace can be found through dealers and individual estates. For those with the budget to afford such items, they can be beautiful gifts or round out a personal jewelry collection quite nicely. For those who like the antique styles but cannot afford the authentic piece, a vintage coral necklace can be a great alternative, featuring the style of the original without the price tag to match.
Coral may seem like a simple material, but it is very versatile and can be shaped to create a wide variety of styles. For this reason, the coral necklace can be a perfect jewelry item for many different tastes. Finding a coral piece that suits the tastes of even the most discerning woman is possible with just a bit of research and effort.
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