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

This pair of Italian red corals presents as matching round cabochons with measured weights of 1.96 carats and 2.53 carats respectively, and with precise dimensions of 9.32 by 9.19 by 3.32 millimeters and 9.30 by 9.08 by 4.36 millimeters. Both stones are fully opaque, exhibiting intense color intensity that falls into a rich coral red to orange red hue range, with excellent evenness of saturation across the domed surfaces. The cabochon cut here is a classical high dome profile, carefully shaped to preserve the natural grain and coloration of Corallium rubrum while maximizing face up presence. The crowns are symmetrically rounded, the girdles are gently polished and consistent, and the bases are cleanly finished to allow secure bezel seating. There is no enhancement, the material is natural and untreated, and the provenance is Italy, a source renowned for deep tiered pigmentation and fine texture in Mediterranean coral.

From a craftsmanship perspective, these cabochons demonstrate controlled material handling and disciplined cutting technique. The cutter has maintained a uniform dome curvature across both stones, which is essential for even light reflection and for creating a visually paired set. The thinner example with a height of 3.32 millimeters exhibits a slightly lower dome that will sit closer to the finger or mounting, while the thicker stone at 4.36 millimeters will present a more pronounced profile. This difference is intentional in many matched pairs to accommodate balance within a finished design, yet the two pieces remain well matched in apparent diameter and color. The polish is of exceptional quality, achieved through progressive abrasive fining to remove tool marks followed by a final buffing that produces a high gloss luster and smooth tactile finish. The surface shows minimal surface irregularity and no polishing pits, which is a critical detail for organic gem materials where surface integrity speaks to both aesthetic value and longevity. Given the organic composition and a Mohs hardness in the lower range compared to silicate gems, the cutting preserved thickness in strategic areas to ensure mechanical stability when set in rings or earrings.

As specialists at The Natural Gemstone Company we emphasize both the gemological and practical considerations for these corals. The untreated nature means color stability is inherent, but like all organic materials they are sensitive to harsh chemicals, high heat, and prolonged exposure to skin oils and perfumes, so closed settings such as bezels that protect the girdle and base are recommended for wearable designs. The pair is ideal for classic stud or drop designs that benefit from matched face up color and slightly varied dome heights, or for bespoke pieces where the cutter s subtle differences can be used to create depth and dimensional contrast. We can supply additional documentation on origin and observation notes on request, and we advise setting methods that include protective backings or linings to prevent abrasion and to support the natural material. Please contact The Natural Gemstone Company for inquiries regarding custom matching, mounting recommendations, or to request high resolution imaging and exact colorimetric readings, we are available to assist with technical specifications and design integration to ensure these Italian corals perform beautifully in your final creation.