2.48 Ct. Coral from Italy

The Natural Gemstone Company is pleased to present a finely carved coral cameo, a single 2.48 carat oval of natural salmon and white coral, measuring 13.98 x 9.70 x 3.28 mm, that embodies traditional craftsmanship and natural beauty. This gem is opaque in body, with a hand carved relief depicting a classical profile, and it displays a pleasing medium color intensity across the salmon ground and a clean white for the cameo motif. The oval outline lends itself to a variety of settings, and the carving cut is executed to provide depth and dimensionality while preserving the structural integrity of the coral. There are no enhancements of any kind, and the piece is unmistakably natural in origin, sourced from Italy, a region with a long and well respected history of coral artisanship and Mediterranean coral harvesting.

From a grading perspective this cameo is notable in several respects that are important to an educated buyer assessing natural coral. Clarity in coral is assessed differently than in transparent gemstones, and for this piece clarity refers to the absence of internal fissures, porosity, or discoloration that can compromise durability or visual appeal. This specimen is effectively free of visible internal flaws at normal viewing distances, and the opaque nature is consistent with high quality cameo material. Color grading for coral emphasizes hue, tone, and saturation. The salmon ground exhibits a medium intensity tone which allows for a refined contrast with the white carving layer. That contrast is especially valuable in cameo work since it enhances the legibility of the relief and creates a striking two tone effect without artificial dyeing. The excellent polish contributes to the cameo presenting a smooth, satiny surface that reflects light in a way that emphasizes sculptural detail while maintaining the soft, warm luster typical of fine coral.

The carving deserves specific attention because it is the element that translates raw natural material into wearable art. The carving cut here has been executed to reveal a crisp silhouette with carefully modeled curls and facial contours that read well even at the modest size of just under 14 by 10 millimeters. Depth of relief and edge definition are the technical markers of good cameo carving, and this item shows deliberate material economy, with enough relief to cast subtle shadows and enough surface refinement to display the polish uniformly. For collectors and connoisseurs, the presence of natural color banding between the salmon exterior and the cream white interior is evidence of natural layering rather than dyed or assembled material, and that natural banding increases provenance value. Given the coral hardness, which is comparatively low among gem materials, the preservation of fine detail reflects both the quality of the original rough coral and the skill of the hand carver. The lack of enhancements is an important valuation factor, because many corals in market channels are stabilized, dyed, or otherwise treated to intensify color. This cameo offers the opposite, a natural palette and no enhancement treatments, which supports long term appreciation from both aesthetic and collector perspectives.

Italian origin contributes to the gemological and cultural standing of this cameo. Mediterranean coral from Italy has been used for centuries in cameos and intaglios and it retains a distinctive place in both historical and contemporary jewelry. For an informed buyer provenance matters, because responsible supply chains and established artisanal centers increase confidence in both ethical sourcing and consistent quality. The Natural Gemstone Company documents that this coral is of Italian origin and that it has not undergone laboratory enhancements, and we can provide condition notes and high resolution imaging on request to support purchase decisions. Practical considerations for use and care are also essential for educated buyers. Coral is organic and comparatively soft, so secure bezel or closed back settings for rings and pendants are recommended to minimize abrasion and impact. Avoid exposure to acids, cosmetics, and ultrasonic cleaners, and clean gently with a soft cloth and mild soapy water. With appropriate setting and care, a high quality cameo such as this will retain its detail and luster and perform well as both wearable jewelry and a collectible cabinet piece.

In summary this 2.48 carat oval salmon and white coral cameo is a compact but richly detailed example of traditional carving on natural Mediterranean coral. The combination of medium color intensity, clear two tone contrast, absence of enhancements, and excellent polish makes it attractive to buyers who value authenticity, documented origin, and artisanal workmanship. The dimensions 13.98 x 9.70 x 3.28 mm and the secure oval shape make it versatile for custom settings while the fine carving offers visual impact disproportionate to its size. The Natural Gemstone Company stands behind the description and provenance of this piece, and we will provide any additional images, certification details, or setting advice to assist in appraisal or design. For collectors, designers, and discerning private buyers seeking a naturally colored, well carved Italian coral cameo, this item represents a compelling balance of aesthetic appeal, technical carving quality, and documented natural origin.