2.62 Ct. Coral from Italy

This lot presents one exquisite opaque orange coral, weighing 2.62 carats, with a carefully executed fancy drop shape, dimensions 10.50 x 6.10 x 6.30 millimeters, a drops cut, intense color intensity, and an excellent polish. Origin is Italy, and the specimen is reported as no enhancement, which is a critical attribute for collectors and craftsmen seeking authentic organic material with untouched surface and internal characteristics. The Natural Gemstone Company is offering this piece with full disclosure of its physical parameters and treatment status. The drop profile has been shaped to emphasize a symmetrical teardrop outline, with a slightly rounded apex and a broader base that permits stable bezel seating and predictable visual balance in finished jewellery. The weight to volume relationship for this coral is consistent with dense, high quality Mediterranean red coral, and the stated opacity articulates a solid body color, free from translucency that might otherwise interfere with saturation perception.

Color analysis for this orange coral focuses on three interrelated variables, hue, tone, and saturation, each of which is essential to precise description and valuation. The primary hue reads as a warm orange leaning slightly toward classic coral red orange, and the tone situates in the medium to medium dark range, which allows the color to present with intensity without appearing muddy. Saturation is pronounced, described here as intense, and it manifests as a vivid, evenly distributed chroma across the entire surface. Under standard daylight equivalent illumination the surface returns a strong, saturated orange with subtle warm undertones, and no visible patchiness or localized bleaching is evident in the supplied images. Optical granularity and natural growth lines are minimal, indicating skilled selection of the coral segment used for shaping, and the absence of dye or resin impregnation is consistent with the no enhancement declaration, preserving natural porosity and response to humidity and oils.

From a craftsmanship perspective the drops cut executed on this coral emphasizes smooth curvature and controlled thickness, rather than faceted planes, to enhance the organic luster that differentiates top quality coral from other gem materials. The preeminent polishing technique employed achieves an excellent polish, yielding a soft, waxy sheen that is characteristic of well finished coral bodies, and the finish minimizes surface abrasions while preserving the natural microstructure. The proportions, length to width ratio approximately 1.72 to 1, and depth relative to length approximately 60 percent, afford designers predictable pavilion depth for bezel and closed back settings. The slightly domed profile reduces the risk of chipping along edges during setting, and the robust base thickness of 6.30 millimeters supports secure bezel claws or a low profile collet. Because coral is an organic biomineral with lower hardness than typical gemstones, precision in edge radius and polish quality is essential to avoid stress concentration points during metalwork, and this specimen demonstrates those considerations were observed during shaping.

Practical guidance for use and care is provided for professional jewellers and informed collectors to optimize longevity and presentation of this coral. For secure mounting a full or partial bezel is recommended to protect the perimeter and minimize exposure to impact, while a closed back setting will maintain visual saturation and reduce light induced bleaching. Mechanical drilling is feasible at the base for bead or pendant configurations, however the jeweller should use slow speed and plenty of lubrication to prevent heat buildup or microfracturing. Cleaning should be limited to warm water, mild soap, and soft cloths, avoiding ultrasonic equipment, steam, and harsh solvents or acids. Avoid prolonged exposure to direct heat and household chemicals, as well as extended ultraviolet light, which can alter surface oils and dull the polish over time. When combined with yellow or rose gold, the orange hue reads as warmer and more saturated, while white metals provide a contemporary contrast that highlights the saturated chroma. The Natural Gemstone Company stands behind the provenance and treatment statement on this Italian coral, and we invite enquiries from designers and collectors seeking additional imagery, lapidary details, or bespoke setting consultations.