74.42 Ct. Coral from Italy

One beautiful opaque 74.42 carat bead shape orange coral is presented here, the single bead measuring 9.00 x 9.00 x 9.00 mm, cut as a classic bead, exhibiting medium color intensity and an excellent polish, no enhancement, origin Italy. As specialists at The Natural Gemstone Company we assess coral using criteria that reflect its organic nature. Color is primary for coral appraisal, and the medium intensity of this specimen provides a warm, natural orange that sits between pastel and deep saturated red orange, making it highly versatile for both traditional and contemporary jewelry. The bead cut emphasizes symmetry and roundness, and the 9.00 mm dimension gives a substantial presence without overwhelming a design. Weight at 74.42 carat for this bead indicates a dense, well formed piece, and the absence of enhancement distinguishes it from common treated materials. The Italian provenance adds a layer of historical and market interest, because Mediterranean corals have long been sought after for their quality and distinctive hue.

Clarity for opaque organic gems like coral is assessed differently than for crystalline gemstones, clarity in this context refers to surface integrity, absence of cracks or deep pits, uniformity of grain, and freedom from stabilizing resins or dyes. This bead shows excellent surface polish, which brings forward the stone luster and creates a silky, almost satiny sheen that responds beautifully to light. The lack of enhancements is especially important, because many corals on the market are dyed or impregnated to stabilize or intensify color, and those treatments alter both appearance and long term durability. Because this piece is enhancement free, it retains its natural micro structure and original organics, which collectors and designers often prefer for authenticity and provenance. When grading a bead such as this, we document surface condition, polish quality, color zoning, and any natural character marks, and this specimen rates highly in those categories.

When compared to lab grown or synthetic alternatives it is important to be precise about differences. Coral is an organic biomineral, formed by living organisms, and its internal growth patterns, organic matrix, and natural color variation cannot be perfectly replicated by typical laboratory methods. Lab grown or imitation corals exist as reconstituted materials, plastics, or dyed and stabilized composites, and while those can offer perfect uniformity and lower cost, they lack the subtle variations and the tactile warmth of natural coral. From an investment and connoisseur standpoint natural unenhanced coral carries provenance and rarity, especially when traceable to a region such as Italy. A lab produced bead may match a single color swatch, but it will not replicate the natural banding, slight tonal shifts, and organic feel that contribute to the aesthetic and collectible value of a genuine piece. Additionally The Natural Gemstone Company emphasizes traceability and ethical sourcing, and for buyers who value both the story and the material authenticity, natural coral offers verifiable origin data and a level of desirability that lab created alternatives rarely achieve.

For use in design and care this bead is ideal for stringing into elegant necklaces, for bespoke earrings, or as focal beads in artisan bracelets, because the 9.00 mm size and excellent polish deliver a refined look. Designers should note that coral is an organic gem and must be protected from prolonged exposure to acids, perfumes, cosmetics, and extreme heat, and it is best cleaned with a soft damp cloth rather than with ultrasonic or steam cleaners. Because this specimen is not stabilized there is no protective impregnation, and careful setting and regular gentle maintenance will preserve its surface and color over time. For collectors seeking a high quality, historically resonant material the combination of 74.42 carat weight, true bead shape, no enhancement, and Italian origin makes this orange coral a valuable acquisition. If you would like additional images, matching beads, or a formal documentation of origin and condition please contact The Natural Gemstone Company, we are available to provide further information and to assist with secure purchase and custom design options.