Depending on species, location, and environmental circumstances, coral gemstones can have a wide variety of physical features. A few of the main physical characteristics of coral are as follows:
Colors: Coral gemstones are found in a multitude of hues, encompassing vivid shades of red, pink, orange, white, and black. Coral coloration is determined by various elements, including the type of coral polyp, the existence of organic pigments, and environmental conditions including sunshine exposure and water temperature.
Texture: Depending on elements including age, growing circumstances, and processing techniques, the surface texture of coral gemstones can range from polished and smooth to rough and porous. A coral specimen's visual attractiveness and organic charm may be enhanced by elaborate patterns, ridges, or grooves.
Structure: The growth patterns of the coral polyps that make up coral gemstones are reflected in their usual branching, encrusting, or enormous structure. While encrusting corals, like Porites and Montipora, develop in thin, flat layers that stick to substrate surfaces, branching corals, like Acropora and Pocillopora, form complicated, tree-like structures.
Translucency: The transparency of coral gemstones varies, with some specimens being more opaque than others. Corals that are translucent let light in through, giving off a gentle, shimmering appearance that accentuates their inherent charm and beauty.
Hardness: Ranging from 3.5 to 4 on the Mohs scale, coral gemstones are very soft when compared to other gemstones. Coral can be used in jewelry and decorative items since it is strong enough, but if not handled carefully, it can be scratched and damaged.