3.29 Ct. Cabochon Coral from Italy

This pear shape coral cabochon presents as a precision worked organic gemstone, weighing 3.29 carat with finished dimensions 14.55 by 9.88 by 3.57 mm. The material is opaque, with a vivid orangish red hue that displays high saturation and a medium tone that is exceptionally uniform across the surface. The cabochon cut has been executed to emphasize color saturation rather than internal reflection, with a smooth, domed profile and a well centered apex, producing a consistent play of light that enhances the perception of depth without relying on translucency. Surface condition is excellent, with an even polish that yields a high luster and a wet look, and no evidence of surface filling, dye, stabilization, or wax. The specimen is natural, untreated, and originates from Italy, a provenance that is consistent with Mediterranean red coral in terms of color and organic structure.

From a lapidary perspective, this coral demonstrates careful attention to material specific cutting protocols. Preform shaping was done to the pear outline with progressive abrasive stages that respect the relatively low hardness of coral, preserving structural integrity while achieving precise outline symmetry. The dome height has been controlled to balance visual impact and durability, the finished thickness of 3.57 mm providing sufficient mass to resist common setting stresses while maintaining a pleasing overall proportion for the 14.55 by 9.88 mm face. Edge work is executed to a smooth, slightly rounded pavilion edge to facilitate bezel seating and to minimize stress concentration. The final polish is consistent with best practice for carbonate based organics, achieved on fine abrasives and finished on a soft lap with a suitable polish such as tin oxide or cerium oxide, producing an even sheen without evidence of over buffing or localized polish pits. The absence of enhancement is significant for connoisseurs, as untreated coral retains original surface chemistry and color stability characteristics, and it allows for future reworking by a competent lapidary if desired.

Practical considerations for setting and long term care are important for a material with Mohs hardness approximately 3.5, and The Natural Gemstone Company provides this technical guidance with each piece. This coral is ideally suited for protected mounting styles, most notably bezel set pendants and brooches where the dome can be showcased and edge protection is inherent. For finger rings a low profile bezel or a channel style setting that minimizes exposure to impact and abrasive contact is recommended. Routine cleaning should avoid ultrasonic baths, steam cleaning, prolonged exposure to household acids, and concentrated solvents, and should use only a soft cloth and mild soapy water followed by immediate drying. Direct prolonged exposure to strong sunlight and high heat can cause gradual fading, therefore storage away from direct light and separate from harder gemstones is advised to prevent abrasion. Because this piece is natural and untreated, it represents an authentic Italian coral, suitable for collectors and designers who prioritize provenance, craftsmanship, and the unmodified character of organic gem materials, and it is offered with full disclosure by The Natural Gemstone Company.