Composition of Red Coral Gemstone

Red Coral, popularly known as “Moonga” in Hindi, is a very sought-after and energetic gemstone that attracts people with its deep red color and spiritual significance. Red Coral is a marine organism formed from the skeletons of Corallium rubrum. This gemstone is also respected for its metaphysical properties and is therefore considered very auspicious by different cultures. In this guide, we’ll explore the Red Coral gemstone’s composition, physical and chemical properties, benefits, how to take care of them, and much more.

 

Table of Contents

 

  1. What is Red Coral Gemstone?
  2. Red Coral Gemstone Formation and Origin
  3. Chemical Composition of Red Coral
  4. Physical Characteristics of Red Coral
  5. Types of Red Coral Gemstone
  6. Sources of Red Coral Gemstone
  7. Red Coral Astrological Importance
  8. Finding Real Red Coral
  9. How to Care for Red Coral Gemstone
  10. Conclusion

What is Red Coral Gemstone?

Red Coral is an organic gemstone consisting of calcium carbonate. While most people are familiar with gemstones based on minerals, Red Coral comes from the skeletons of tiny marine animals called coral polyps. These microscopic animals form colonies, creating thorny and geometrically complex branches that eventually calcify into the gemstone of Red Coral. According to Vedic astrology, it is Mars planet and believed to infuse energy, vitality, and courage in the wearer.

Main Features

  • Common Names: Moonga, Coral, Corallium Rubrum
  • Type: Organic Gemstone
  • Color: Deep Red to Light Pink
  • Metaphysical Meaning: Bravery, Strength, Safeguard

 

Red Coral Gemstone Formation and Origin

Red Coral gemstones are a result of an interesting natural process in which marine animals play a part. Coral polyps are small animals that exude calcium carbonate, thus forming a hard skeleton. These skeletons pile up over time and form coral reefs. Once harvested, these skeletal structures are cut, tumbled, or grind to acquire beautiful gemstones.

Marine Habitat

  • Occurs in depths between 10 and 300 meters.
  •  Characteristically grows in the Mediterranean Sea, Pacific Ocean, and Indian Ocean.
  • Needs stable temperatures and pollution-free waters.

 

Chemical Composition of Red Coral

Red Coral’s chemical constituent is calcium carbonate (CaCO₃), which comprises approximately 90% of its composition. Magnesium, iron, and trace elements contribute to a characteristic red color. Below is a breakdown of the chemical composition:

Major Components

  • CaCO₃: 85-90%
  • Magnesium: 3-5%
  • Iron: 1-2%

 

Trace Elements: Copper, Aluminum, Silicon

The high red colour is due to the iron oxides but impurities such as magnesium can give a pinkish tint. Red Coral is of organic origin and hence does not have the crystal structure that most minerals have. This makes it a highly unique phenomenon in the world of gemstones.

 

Physical Characteristics of Red Coral

Red Coral has some pretty specific physical characteristics:

Hardness and Strength

  • Mohs Hardness 3-4
  • Denseness 2.60-2.70 g/cm³
  •  Luster Vitreous to Dull
  • Transparency Opaque

While it has a relatively low hardness, the tightly compacted structure of Red Coral grants it strength, making this gemstone very popular for jewelry, such as rings, pendants, and bracelets.

 

Types of Red Coral Gemstone

Red Coral occurs in many forms, which are different from one another and have their specific characteristics. Here are a few of the most common types:

1. Mediterranean Coral

  • Origin: Mediterranean Sea.
  • Color: Deep red, sometimes with orange hues.
  • Features: Of high quality and rich color.

2. Japanese Coral

  • Origin: From the waters off Japan, in the Pacific Ocean.
  • Color: Dark red to pinkish-red.
  • Features: Fine texture and high polish.

3. Sardinian Coral

  • Origin: Waters around Sardinia, Italy.
  • Color: Rich, uniform red.
  • Features: Rarity and good color, premium material.

 

Sources of Red Coral Gemstone

Red Coral is mainly found in these regions:

  1. Mediterranean Region

The main source of the high-quality Red Coral is the Mediterranean Sea, which ensures the preservation of coral reefs due to the proper harvesting of corals.

  1. Japan

These waters surrounding Japan produce gorgeous dark red corals. Japanese Red Coral has an attractive smooth surface and natural color.

  1. India

The Indian Ocean also offers Red Coral, but its quality is relatively inferior. Indian corals are much light in color and are sometimes pinkish reddish in hue.

 

Red Coral Astrological Importance

Red Coral has more astrological significance primarily within Vedic Astrology. It is related to the planet Mars, or Mangal. It implies that the wearer will get the energy strength and courage along with confidence from the planet Mars. Wearing Red Coral is said to balance the temperament, avoid evil energy, and increase the vitality of the wearer.

Astrological Benefits

  • Increases self-confidence and courage.
  • Empower a person to overcome any kind of obstacles in the way to meet objectives.
  • Positive health aspects related to blood, bones, and skin.

 

Benefits of Wearing Red Coral

The Red Coral gemstone said to offer several health, emotional, and spiritual benefits. The most noted benefits include:

1. Health Benefits

  • Improves Blood Circulation: Regulates blood pressure.
  • Boosts Immune System: Increases physical stamina and immunity.
  • Aids in Digestion: Promotes digestive health and reduces ulcers.

2. Emotional Benefits

  • Promotes Emotional Stability: Balances emotions and reduces stress.
  • Increases Self-Esteem: Instills confidence and courage.
  • Fosters Positive Relationships: Encourages harmony and understanding.

3. Spiritual Benefits

  • Protective Stone: Avoid evil eye and bad energy
  •  Increases Intuition: Improves intuitive and spiritual understanding
  •  Mars Stone: Expands Mars- orientated qualities of leadership or impulsiveness

 

Finding Real Red Coral

Due to its popularity and high value, Red Coral can be found in many imitation and synthetic varieties in the market. To spot real Red Coral follow the following guidelines

  1. Observe Natural Flaws

Natural imperfections and pits are normal for any authentic Red Coral. If its surface looks too smooth and flawless, it probably is synthetic.

  1. Test the Colour

The color of natural Red Coral is rich and natural and does not bleed or change in the presence of light or chemicals. Fake corals usually have a uniform color that is too perfect.

  1. Density Test

Red Coral is slightly dense, so it should be heavier than plastic or resin impostors. A simple weight test can prove if it is real.

 

How to Care for Red Coral Gemstone

The care for Red Coral is crucial to keeping it beautiful and durable. Here are a few tips:

  1. Avoid Chemicals

Do not expose the Red Coral to harsh chemicals, perfumes, and cleaning products, as these may damage the surface.

  1. Regular Cleaning

Clean the Red Coral with soft cloth and mild soapy water. Do not clean in ultrasonic cleaners as these can shock and damage due to vibration.

  1. Store with Care

Keep your Red Coral jewelry separately so that it will not get scratched; use a soft pouch or cloth to keep it safe.

 

Conclusion

Red Coral is one of the most interesting and unique stones in the realm of gemstones with a very long history and immense astrological significance. Knowing its composition, properties, and benefits will make you well-informed if you’re thinking about adding this beautiful red gemstone to your collection. For either its beauty or spiritual reasons, Red Coral remains one of the most valued and sought gemstones on this earth.