1.62 Ct. Cabochon Coral from Italy

This offering from The Natural Gemstone Company is a single marquise cabochon of natural orange coral, weighing 1.62 carat, and measuring 11.85 x 5.76 x 3.53 mm. The shape is a true marquise, often called navette in lapidary terminology, with precisely tapered points and a consistent outline. The length to width ratio of this piece is approximately 2.06, which falls within the classical range for marquise proportions and yields an elongated silhouette that sits elegantly in linear settings. The crown is a smooth cabochon dome, executed to a height that balances visual presence with practical wearability, the recorded thickness of 3.53 mm providing a stable profile for bezel or half bezel mounting. Surface symmetry is excellent, the two pointed terminations are aligned on axis, and the overall profile demonstrates careful control of the girdle bandwidth to maintain both structural integrity and aesthetic refinement.

Color evaluation for this coral emphasizes vivid intensity, with a saturated orange hue that presents evenly across the table and along the flanks. The material is opaque, which is standard for high quality Mediterranean coral types, and the lack of translucency enhances perceived color depth and consistency. Color distribution is uniform, without zoning or banding, and the hue leans toward a true warm orange with only subtle salmon undertones visible under neutral daylight. This specimen is described as no enhancement, a critical attribute for collectors seeking untreated organic gems, and the origin is Italy, which is noted for a historical tradition of coral harvesting and meticulous hand finishing. Under close inspection, the surface exhibits a fine even texture rather than a coarse or pitted matrix, indicative of well selected rough and careful removal of any superficial irregularities during preforming.

The lapidary work on this cabochon reflects high level craftsmanship, with progressive shaping and polishing steps that respect the organic nature of coral. The cutter retained sufficient depth to produce a pleasing dome, while conserving weight to achieve the 1.62 carat target, a balance that requires experience because coral is softer and more brittle than most mineral gemstones. Pointed marquise cabochons present a technical challenge because the terminations are susceptible to chipping during grinding and polishing, and this piece shows controlled tapering at both ends rather than abrupt acute tips, which reduces stress concentration and improves longevity in jewelry. The polish is described as excellent, the surface finishing achieving a glossy, almost satiny reflection without surface haze, an outcome achieved by staged abrasives followed by a fine organic or resin compatible compound that brings out luster without overheating or chemically affecting the coral matrix.

For use in jewelry, this marquise cabochon is particularly well suited to bezel settings that protect the vulnerable points and secure the dome evenly, though a half bezel with secure prong reinforcement at the tips can also work for low impact designs. The dimensions and shape make it suitable for a vertical pendant, an elongated ring centerpiece, or a statement earring when paired with a complementary mate, noting that coral matching for pairs demands tight control of hue and size. Care recommendations are conservative, avoid exposure to acids, long term direct sunlight, harsh cleaning agents, ultrasonic cleaners, and steam, clean with a soft cloth and mild soapy water and dry immediately. The Natural Gemstone Company verifies origin and treatment status on all coral pieces, and we can provide additional documentation upon request, along with bespoke cutting or matching services for custom projects. Please contact our gem specialists for high resolution images, mounting recommendations, or to arrange viewing under standardized lighting, we are available to advise on setting tolerances and long term care to preserve the vivid orange character and excellent polish of this Italian coral cabochon.