Coral, 16.86 grams; 18 inch. Circa 300 B.C. An attractive re-strung necklace made of over 140 cylindrical and circular ancient highly sought after pinky orange coral beads. Coral has been used for decorative purposes and esteemed as a protective stone since immemorial time. Red coral is best described as rich and romantic and can never go out of fashion. Extremely fine condition with modern clasp.

The name coral has been derived from a Greek word Korallion, which denotes the hard, calcareous skeleton of the coral animals or form kura-halos, for mer-maid, as the fine branches of the coral sometimes look like small figures. Corals can be found in shades ranging from pure white to black, but pink and red colour coral are most valuable. Coral has always been popular as a material for jewellery and precious coral jewellery is the oldest form of gemstone jewellery with pieces as old as 25 000 years in museums. It has also been given qualities for mystical purposes; for instances, during Middle Ages, coral was used as a material to protect one from harm; because of this mystical trait, coral was given to children to wear and was also worn as charms or pendants or necklaces.

Corals are delicate gems and should be taken proper care of. To clean Coral jewellery, wipe it gently with a moist soft cloth, as Coral is much softer than other gem materials. As a result it should be stored carefully to avoid scratches. Coral is also porous so care should be taken to see that coral jewellery does not come in contact with any chemicals.