4.19 Ct. Coral from Italy

This specimen from The Natural Gemstone Company is an opaque oval salmon and white coral, weighing 4.19 carats with precise dimensions of 17.90 x 13.03 x 3.17 mm. The piece is executed as a carving cut, presenting a classical cameo motif in bas relief, with a warm salmon ground supporting a creamy white profile. Color intensity is graded as medium, providing a balanced contrast between the ground and the relief without over saturation or stark bleaching. The surface exhibits an excellent polish, producing a soft luster on both the raised white areas and the surrounding salmon field. Enhancement status is none, the material is natural with no dyeing, bleaching, impregnation, or heat treatment, and the reported origin is Italy, which is consistent with Mediterranean coral known for its fine grain and stable hue.

From a craftsmanship perspective, this carving demonstrates deliberate selection of a two tone blank to capitalize on natural color zoning, allowing the carver to expose the lighter layer for the figure while retaining an intact salmon ground for contrast. The carving technique is classical cameo carving, executed in low to moderate high relief, with controlled undercutting around the profile to create crisp shadow lines and visual separation from the ground. Attention to anatomical proportion is evident in the facial plane and neck, and micro sculptural work is visible in the treatment of hair locks and floral elements, where fine tool strokes have been blended to a smooth finish. The carving depth averages in the range appropriate for use in a bezel or gallery mounting, with the maximum thickness at 3.17 mm providing structural integrity while keeping the profile elegant and wearable. The excellent polish indicates a meticulous final finishing protocol, likely involving progressive abrasives and fine pumice or rouge, resulting in a uniform surface sheen and the elimination of tool chatter without compromising the carved detail.

For setting, conservation, and valuation considerations, the piece benefits from its untreated status and clear provenance to Italy, attributes that enhance appeal to connoisseurs and traditional collectors. The weight of 4.19 carats paired with the oval footprint yields a favorable weight to face up ratio, suggesting a dense and homogenous coral blank was employed, which in turn supports secure setting options. A flush bezel or low rim gallery is recommended to protect the perimeter of the cameo from impact while allowing the profile to read properly, or alternatively a handcrafted open back setting may be used to maintain lighter overall weight in pendants. Mechanical prong settings can be employed where prongs are precisely placed to avoid contact with the most delicate raised details. Care protocols include avoidance of ultrasonic or steam cleaning, prevention of exposure to acids and strong household chemicals, and limiting direct intense heat to preserve natural color and organic structure. Given its medium color intensity, natural contrast, and fine carving, this salmon and white coral cameo is well suited to both period style jewelry and contemporary bespoke pieces, and it represents a distinct offering from The Natural Gemstone Company for clients who prioritize provenance, artisanal carving, and untreated materials.