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Coral and Shell Jewelry Information

Coral Information

Coral was very popular in jewelry from 1840 to 1875 when complete sets of jewelry were fashioned from these underwater treasures.  Coral, like jet, is relatively soft so it can be easily carved.  Cameos, rings, brooches, bracelets and strands of polished beads were made in abundance, especially from the coral found in the water of the Mediterranean. Children’s jewelry, baby rattles and teething rings were also fashioned from coral since it was believed to ward off evil.

In the 19th century many of the motifs were of nature, coral took the form of flowers, twigs, branches and leaves.  Coral in its natural state looks like little branches. Most of the material was combined with intricate gold work and sometimes enamel. Gem-quality coral is found in several of the seven seas.  The most highly prized is the dark red variety found off the coasts of Tunisia and Algeria. A black coral and a less valuable pink variety come from the ocean around Hawaii, and a blue coral is found in the Indian Ocean as well as parts of the Pacific. Coral in its raw form is the many-branched remains of colonies of tiny sea creatures.

Shell Information

Shell jewelry is made from the hard, smooth iridescent inner lining of the shell of certain mollusks (pearl, oyster, abalone, nautilus, river mussel) consisting chiefly of plates of calcium carbonate (in the form of aragonite or calcite) secreted by the Mantle in thin overlapping plates and cemented together with an organic substance form the iridescent substance known as Nacre. This is called mother-of pearl.  This substance has been used for making cameos. carved pendants and buttons.  Sometimes beautiful old jewelry is made following lovely seashells found on the beach.

Thank you for visiting Perlin Jewels our  Coral and Shell Jewelry Information. We specialize in quality coral and shell jewelry. We focus on condition and quality as our underlying rule for making our purchases as an investment for us and our customers. Antique and vintage coral and shell jewelry are highly prized and collectible works of art.

We hope you enjoy our beautiful Coral and Shell jewelry.  Good luck in your search for finding that special piece for you or a loved one.

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