4.00 Ct.Tw.Total Carat Weight Cabochon Coral Pair from Italy

This matched pair of natural Mediterranean corals offered by The Natural Gemstone Company consists of two opaque marquise cabochons weighing 1.94 carats and 2.06 carats respectively, with dimensions 12.27 x 6.28 x 3.63 millimeters, and 12.21 x 6.14 x 3.97 millimeters. The length to width ratios are approximately 1.96 and 1.99, reflecting a classic elongated marquise proportion ideal for matched ear pieces or complementary elements in a multi stone composition. Depth to length ratios are approximately 29.6 percent and 32.5 percent, indicating a medium to moderately high dome profile that balances a pleasing visual mass with stability in mounting. Both stones are cabochon cut with a smooth convex crown and a well defined girdle perimeter, their surfaces exhibiting an even contour and excellent symmetry, factors which are critical when setting marquise cabochons to ensure even pressure distribution and consistent optical response.

The cutting and polish of these corals demonstrate deliberate lapidary control over dome curvature and edge definition, resulting in a bright, waxy luster that emphasizes the body color without introducing distracting highlights. The cabochon technique employed retains the organic texture characteristic of coral while removing surface irregularities, the apex of the dome centered along the length axis to preserve the marquise silhouette when viewed from multiple angles. Because coral is an organic gem material with a Mohs hardness in the range of 3.5 to 4, the cutter selected a modest dome height to reduce susceptibility to chipping at the tips, while still achieving a visually substantial profile. The excellent polish confirms the use of progressively finer abrasives and a final rouge or equivalent polishing medium calibrated for carbonates, producing a smooth, reflective finish that is both tactile and stable under normal handling.

Color is the defining attribute of these pieces, described as orangish red with vivid color intensity and uniform saturation across each cabochon. The hue sits in an intermediate zone between bright orange and classic Mediterranean red, providing a warm, lively tone that photographs and sets consistently under both natural daylight and warm artificial lighting. The opacity is complete, which in coral is often desirable for saturation retention and for minimizing visual distractions from internal layering or growth patterns. Origin is Italy, which is notable for a particular Mediterranean color palette and for traditional harvesting and cutting practices that prioritize color preservation and minimal treatment. Importantly these pieces are natural, with no enhancement reported, which assures collectors and designers that the color and stability are inherent to the specimens, not the result of dyes, impregnation, or heat.

From a setting and care perspective these paired cabochons are exceptionally well matched, with a negligible difference in length of 0.06 millimeters and a weight differential of 0.12 carats, making them ideal for symmetrically set earrings, matched pendant pairings, or as focal elements in a bespoke design. Recommended settings include fully graduated bezels or protective collets that cradle the marquise tips, or secure prong frameworks with low profile prongs that reduce leverage on the crown. For adhesives and mounting processes, use jewelry grade epoxies rated for organic materials, and avoid solvents, acids, and ultrasonic cleaners which can damage coral by swelling or surface etching. Routine care should consist of gentle cleaning with a soft damp cloth, avoidance of prolonged exposure to direct strong sunlight which can cause fading in some organic materials, and storage separate from harder gemstones to prevent abrasion. For further technical documentation, matching photographs, and custom mount recommendations contact The Natural Gemstone Company, where our lapidary experts can provide mounting diagrams, bezel thickness suggestions, and complementary stone choices to assist in realizing the optimal finished piece.