41.05 Ct. Coral from Australia

This oval orange coral presents as a single, substantial specimen, weighing 41.05 carats, with finished dimensions measuring 39.01 by 23.09 by 7.58 millimeters. The overall shape is a classic elongated oval cabochon, executed in a carving cut rather than a faceted schema, and the surface carries a finely modelled bas relief depicting an avian and floral motif. The carving is shallow to medium in depth, allowing the material to retain structural integrity while offering defined topography where fine ridges and feathering have been retained. The silhouette is symmetrical and balanced for setting, with consistent thickness along the central axis, and edge radii that facilitate secure bezel or closed back mountings. Optical properties present as opaque, with a uniform transmission profile that supports the carved motifs without distracting translucency or light bleed, making the piece ideal for applications where surface detail and color uniformity are paramount.

From a gemological and craftsmanship perspective the coral exhibits vivid color intensity, with high saturation in the orange range and a mid to medium dark tone that reads strongly under customary daylight balanced illumination. Color distribution is homogeneous across the table and within the carved fields, exhibiting negligible mottling or banding, which is frequently expected in high quality natural coral. The luster achieved is exceptionally high for coral, approaching a polished waxy to slightly vitreous finish, indicative of meticulous lapidary finishing, progressive abrasive sequences, and a final rouge or fine emery polishing stage that removed microabrasions while preserving the sharpness of the carved reliefs. The absence of any enhancement is explicitly noted, no dyeing, bleaching, resin stabilization, or thermal alteration has been applied, and the material bears the hallmarks of untreated natural coral originating from Australia, a provenance that contributes to the piece s rarity profile. Structurally, the material demonstrates the characteristic density and fine grained structure of gem quality coral, and the cutter has respected the natural growth orientation to minimize microfracturing and to achieve a smooth cut surface across curved planes.

Practical considerations for use, setting, and long term maintenance are critical for retaining the integrity and aesthetic of this coral. Given coral s Mohs range near three to four, mechanical protection in the form of bezel mounting, protective halo, or integrated setting design is recommended for rings and bracelets, while pendants and brooches can take advantage of exposed carving when mounted in low pressure bezels or friction fittings. Adhesive backings are discouraged for primary settings unless an expert jeweler uses conservation grade materials, and drilled mounts should be avoided because of the shallow relief carving and to preserve the continuous carved surface. Cleaning should be limited to gentle cleansing using a soft cloth, mild soap, and lukewarm water, avoiding ultrasonic cleaners, steam, and chemical solvents, and exposure to cosmetics perfumes and acids should be minimized to preserve surface polish and color. For collectors and connoisseurs seeking provenance and craftsmanship, this untreated Australian coral represents a combination of substantial carat weight, expert relief carving, vivid natural color, and an exceptional polish finish, attributes that contribute to both wearable elegance and investment appeal. The Natural Gemstone Company offers this piece with full disclosure of untreated status and origin, and can assist with bespoke mounting recommendations and conservation grade setting options to ensure the carved details remain protected while the coral is showcased to its fullest potential.