10.93 Ct. Coral from Italy

One exquisite, opaque coral specimen, weighing 10.93 carats, is presented in an oval outline with precise dimensions of 30.00 x 23.04 x 4.68 mm. The piece exhibits a classic carving cut executed as a cameo relief, utilizing the natural bi color layering of the coral to produce a warm salmon ground with a contrasting white relief. Color grading for this specimen is best described as medium color intensity, with the salmon ground providing a consistent, warm saturation that frames the pale, near creamy white of the raised motif. The opacity of the material is typical of high quality Mediterranean coral sourced from Italy, and the contrast between the layers has been preserved without any dyes or enhancements, confirming the report of no enhancement. The oval geometry and modest thickness were chosen to optimize both visual balance and structural integrity, retaining sufficient material for a well defined relief while preventing undue fragility in elevated areas.

From a craftsmanship perspective, the cameo demonstrates disciplined lapidary technique, with clean line work and controlled relief modeling. The carving cut here is executed in bas relief to mid relief, creating a three dimensional profile that records delicate anatomical planes and fine hair patterning, while avoiding excessively deep undercuts that would compromise durability. Tooling marks are minute and consistent, indicating staged cutting with progressively finer abrasives, followed by selective re shaping and refinement to define facial features and edges. The polish is excellent, exhibiting a soft satiny sheen on the ground surface and a slightly higher gloss on the convex planes of the relief, a finish achieved through rotational polishing with fine pastes and felt wheels to preserve texture while enhancing visual separation between layers. The lapidary orientation leveraged the natural stratification of the coral, aligning the white outer layer to produce the figure and retaining the salmon background as an even field, a technique that demands intimate knowledge of coral bedding planes and color gradients. No stabilization or color treatment has been applied, and the Italian origin supports provenance for Mediterranean sourcing and traditional carving practices.

Practical considerations for setting, handling, and long term conservation arise from the material properties and dimensions of this example. Coral typically registers a Mohs hardness in the range of about 3 to 4, which places it well below conventional gem minerals for heavy wear, therefore a protective bezel or halo mount is recommended for ring applications, while pendants and brooches capitalize on lower impact exposure and present the carving to best effect. The overall thickness of 4.68 mm and the carat weight of 10.93 carats yield a substantial visual presence on the finger or in a pendant, while the oval shape lends itself to classic settings that follow the outline, minimizing stress concentrations at corners. Cleaning should be undertaken with a soft damp cloth and mild soap, avoiding ultrasonic and steam cleaners, and excluding alcohol based solvents or household chemicals which can alter surface luster or color. For design integration, pairing this salmon and white cameo with warm yellow gold will emphasize the salmon tones, whereas white metal settings will draw attention to the contrast and the white relief. The Natural Gemstone Company is pleased to present this untreated Italian coral, and we can provide additional technical documentation on request, including high resolution images and consultation regarding custom mounting options to preserve the carving and maximize presentation.