13.95 Ct. Coral from China

This entry from The Natural Gemstone Company is a single opaque orange coral specimen, precisely 13.95 carats, with a freeform profile measuring 40.50 by 14.40 by 5.10 mm. The piece is presented as cut not applicable, reflecting its organic morphology rather than a faceted or standardized cabochon geometry. Color is classified as intense orange, with a high degree of saturation and a warm chromatic bias toward medium deep orange, which remains stable across viewing angles due to the material opacity. Surface condition is described as excellent polish, achieved through targeted lapidary finishing, and the only enhancement applied is polishing, with no dyeing, stabilization, or impregnation reported. The origin is China, and provenance details accompany the specimen in our catalog description. The freeform shape follows the natural growth direction of the coral, producing a gently undulating silhouette with localized thickness variation, and the measured profile yields a strong face to depth ratio that favors display in bezel set or sculptural assemblies.

From a material science and lapidary perspective, this coral exhibits the characteristic microstructure of aragonitic skeletal material, with intergrown needle like crystal bundles that confer a compact, non translucent body. The opaque nature eliminates light transmission concerns that can complicate color perception in translucent gems, therefore color grade is dictated solely by surface hue and chroma, which in this instance is uniformly intense. The finishing technique employed by our workshop focuses on progressive abrasives and final lapping with non oxidizing compounds to produce a waxy to subvitreous luster, while minimizing the introduction of micro abrasion or altered surface topology. Polishing enhancement was applied conservatively, removing machining marks and surface irregularities while preserving any natural surface features deemed desirable for aesthetic integrity. Given coral hardness in the lower range of the Mohs scale, the excellent polish serves to reduce micro indentation susceptibility, however the material remains softer than typical gem silicates, therefore machining and setting recommendations favor protective bezels, low profile mounts, and avoidance of high stress prong work unless additional support is incorporated into the design.

The craftsmanship and presentation by The Natural Gemstone Company emphasize suitability for designers and collectors who prioritize natural morphology and color intensity. The freeform geometry invites bespoke applications, including asymmetrical pendants, inlay work where panel curvature aligns with the piece profile, or as an accent in mixed media jewelry where organic shape enhances compositional balance. Technical considerations for setting include pre fitting by lapidary to ensure seat conformity, use of non corrosive adhesives formulated for organic gems when needed, and avoidance of thermal or chemical exposure that may induce surface dulling or micro fissuring. All pieces are inspected under 10X microscopy to verify absence of treatments beyond polishing, to assess the presence of growth lines or internal discontinuities, and to confirm dimensional tolerances with calibrated instruments. The Natural Gemstone Company provides full specification data with each lot, including carat weight, exact dimensions, polish notes, enhancement statement, and country of origin. For clients seeking additional photomicrographs, side profile images, or bespoke cutting or mounting services, we can supply detailed documentation and workshop estimates to preserve the material integrity while realizing design objectives.