Coral strands

Types of Coral Strands

Corals come in different types, making coral strands popular in jewelry. Each type of coral has unique colors, shapes, and patterns. They range from deep ocean hues to bright red or pink shades. While coral is mainly red, black, and blue, every hue comes with meaning and beauty. The most sought-after types are spiny oyster, angel skin, bamboo, and mineola. Below are coral strands' main and most popular, types, all at a glance.

• Natural Coral Strands

  Corals are primarily found in the sea, mainly formed by the calcium carbonate skeletons of small marine animals called polyps. They are mainly red or pink, black, cream, or white. Red coral, from the Mediterranean Sea, is the most expensive and valuable type of natural coral. Coral strands are created by stringing beads made from natural coral stones. This type of coral has become very rare and is highly valued due to its high value and the decline of coral reefs.

• Angel Skin Coral Strands

  Angel skin coral is a type of precious coral that is mainly pale pink or white. It comes from the deep waters of the Mediterranean Sea and the Pacific Ocean around Japan. Because of its beautiful color and rarity, it is highly esteemed in jewelry making. Angel skin coral strands give a delicate and soft appeal. Shoppers also like it for its smooth texture and milky pastel tones.

• Red Coral Strands

  Red coral has long been prized in jewelry and art. Stone crafters treasured it for its vivid color and symbolic meaning. Red coral strands are still treasured today. Overharvesting and environmental changes have made it quite rare. Coral beads are mainly round and smooth, which makes them ideal for necklaces, bracelets, and earrings.

• Black Coral Strands

  Black coral comes from deep-sea species and is often found in tropical waters. Its strands are highly valued and used in various jewelry styles. Coral strands often look like they have natural shiny or matte finishes. Because of their deep color, black coral strands add an elegant look to any piece of jewelry.

• Bamboo Coral Strands

  Bamboo coral is bright red, orange, or yellow, and resembles bamboo stalks. Coral beads often have areas that look like the nodes of bamboo, giving them a unique and textured appearance. Bead craftsmen love this coral type because it is affordable and widely available. This coral also comes with vibrant colors that appeal to many shoppers.

Design of Coral Strands

Coral strand jewelry can range from simple and delicate to bold and chunky, depending on the size of the beads used and the overall design intent. Below are some popular designs of coral strands.

• Chunky Coral Strands

  Chunky coral strands feature large beads, making a bold statement. This design emphasizes the natural beauty and texture of coral. Jewel crafters often pair chunky coral with simple clothing styles so the jewelry stands out. This coral bead design is popular for making standout necklaces or bracelets. Coral bead strands often look best when they are the focal point of an ensemble.

• Graduated Coral Strands

  The beads in a graduated coral strand increase or decrease in size from one end to the other. This design creates a visually appealing effect, drawing the eye along the piece. Often, the coral beads at the center of the strand are larger. Coral strands are commonly used in necklaces and bracelets to ensure that the coral draws attention to the wearer's face and outfit.

• Mix of Coral and Other Materials

  Many coral bead designs mix coral with other materials, such as pearls, silver, or gemstones. This design adds contrast and depth, highlighting coral's unique color and texture. Jewel crafters often create intertwined patterns, where coral beads alternate with other materials to give a bohemian style. This design is often used with multi-strand necklaces.

• Classic Round Coral Strands

  Skilled jewel crafters use these coral beads in their original form to create simple and classic strands. The round shape gives the coral an elegant and refined look that is versatile for formal and casual events. This design is popular for pearl necklaces. Both natural and dyed coral typically give a deep red or bright orange color.

• Branch-Shaped Coral Strands

  This coral looks like branching patterns or tree shapes. It adds a unique texture and form to jewelry. Jewel crafters carve and polish the coral to preserve its original shape for necklaces or earrings. This design creates an organic and natural look that appeals to those who want something different.

How to Choose Coral Strands

• Natural vs. Synthetic Coral

  Natural coral is harvested from the ocean and is highly valued for its beauty and rarity. It can be quite expensive. On the other hand, synthetic coral is cultured or made in a lab. It provides a more affordable alternative. However, it still looks much like natural coral. Buyers will often choose synthetic coral if they want coral jewelry and are operating on a budget.

• Color and Quality

  Natural coral is often deep red to bright orange. Coral strands may also be dyed or bleached to achieve different colors. While dyed coral looks appealing, it may not have the same value as natural coral. Jewel crafters also spend time ensuring that the coral they use is of high quality. This is because the color's richness, bead craftsmanship, and absence of cracks or imperfections make the coral strands more valuable and beautiful.

• Coral Type

  Coral comes in various types, each with unique characteristics. Spiny oyster coral comes from shellfish and is primarily orange or purple. Japanese Coral looks like bamboo and has bright red, orange, or yellow colors. People who prefer lighter coral colors often choose angel skin coral. Black coral is deep-sea and has a glossy or matte finish. Each type adds distinct beauty to jewelry.

• Care and Maintenance

  Coral strands need special care to maintain their beauty. Jewelers will avoid exposing coral to harsh chemicals, excessive moisture, or direct sunlight. This is because these elements will damage the coral's natural structure, color, and shine. Cleaning coral strands regularly is important, especially when the strands are worn. Coral strands will often get oils from the skin or dirt that dulls their shine.

• Bead Shape and Size

  The shape and size of the coral beads will have an impact on the overall aesthetic of the jewelry. Round coral beads give a classic and elegant look, while branch-shaped or irregular beads create a more organic and natural appearance. Larger coral beads produce a bold statement, whereas smaller beads are often used in delicate designs. Buyers also consider bead size, which affects the weight and comfort of wearing coral jewelry.

Scenarios of Coral Strands

• Cultural and Traditional Uses

  In many cultures, coral strands are considered more than just decoration. They are believed to give protection, strength, and good fortune. For instance, in African and Arabian cultures, coral jewelry is given as a gift to beautify women during special occasions such as weddings or rites of passage. The strands are often worn as part of traditional dress during festivals, celebrations, or cultural rituals. In these instances, the symbolic meaning of the coral beads takes precedence over their aesthetic value.

• Fashion and Everyday Wear

  Coral strands are common in modern fashion, giving their jewelry versatility and vibrant colors. Designers often use coral rings, necklaces, and earrings in various fashion lines because they look good with so many styles. They offer a fresh and natural look to both everyday and special occasion outfits. They are lightweight and comfortable, which makes them ideal for daily wear. Coral strands also add a pop of color to simple or neutral clothing styles.

• Gifting

  Coral bead jewelry is a good and thoughtful gift for special occasions like birthdays, graduations, and marriage anniversaries. Its beauty and the effort put together make it a sentimental present. Coral jewelry strikes a balance between luxury and personal touch, which makes it ideal for romantics and friends. Coral necklaces and bracelets are also popular gifts for holidays, such as Christmas or Valentine's Day, since they fit well with the season.

• Art and Collecting

  Coral strands have long been desired and collected by art lovers and enthusiasts. Coral jewelry pieces are seen as intricate works of art due to the craftsmanship that goes into making them and the beauty of coral. Many collectors seek rare or antique coral necklaces and bracelets to add to their collections. They are also sometimes displayed as part of museum displays to showcase the history and culture of coral jewelry.

• Bohemian and Beach Style

  Coral strands are ideal for bohemian and beach-style jewelry. In these styles, comfort and a natural look are very important. Coral choker necklaces and bracelets look relaxed and free-spirited, making them suitable for casual outings and beach days. Jewelers often mix coral with other natural materials like shells, wood, or stones. This gives the jewelry an earthy and organic look.

Q&A

What is the cost of coral strands?

The cost of coral strands varies widely depending on several factors, including the type of coral, its color, size, and quality. Red coral, especially natural, can be expensive as it is rare and highly valued. Angel skin coral, which is pale pink or white, is also quite valuable due to its rarity. Coral strands that are dyed or treated tend to be more affordable. Larger beads in a strand also increase the cost as they require more coral material. The craftsmanship of the coral jewelry and whether a skilled artisan made it will also impact the price. Lastly, if the coral is antique or vintage, it may be a collector's item, increasing the cost even more.

How can buyers ensure they are getting genuine coral strands?

Knowing coral and its value ensures that buyers get original strands. Buyers must get coral from sellers with a good name who uphold honesty and quality. They should also request an authenticity certificate for valuable items like red or black coral. Buyers must examine the strands by checking for natural variations and gloss. Genuine coral often looks rough and glossy, while fake looks smooth. Buying coral that is cut or polished by hand gives coral a natural look. Lastly, if affordable, a buyer could rely on a professional evaluation rather than a DIY. It is because experts know coral and can quickly discern if it is natural or synthetic.

Can coral strands be used in do-it-yourself (DIY) projects?

Coral beads are great for making coral jewelry at home. Coral strands are easy to use and suitable for simple projects. Coral bead necklaces and bracelets are often straightforward to make, even for beginners. Corsage jewelry like earrings and pendants often requires less skill. DIY enthusiasts also love crafting coral jewelry because it gives the pieces a personal touch. Coral jewelry is different and appealing, making it popular among DIY lovers. Do-it-yourselfers also opt to combine coral with other materials to give their creations an individualistic style. They often recycle old coral jewelry so it is affordable to create unique individual pieces. This also helps prevent waste. Buyers promote their DIY efforts when they make memorable gifts for friends and family.

Can one wear multiple coral strand necklaces at once?

Wearing multiple coral strand necklaces, also known as layering, is a popular fashion trend that allows for personal expression and creativity. One can wear as many layers as they like, which gives a unique and custom look to coral bead jewelry. Jewelers should ensure the coral necklaces have varying lengths and fit well in the layer. Jewelers should also select coral beads that are a consistent size so the coral strands fall nicely one on top of the other. People should adjust the necklaces at different heights so the strands sit comfortably. Consider coral strands with different bead types to make the jewelry varied. For instance, a coral necklace with graduated beads should go with a classic round coral strand. Doing this will avoid the necklaces from weighing each other down. Lastly, using lighter coral strands makes it easier to wear multiple necklaces without the weight becoming uncomfortable.

Conclusion

Coral strands come in multiple types, each offering unique beauty and characteristics. While natural coral is often highly valued, coral jewelry is affordable, as coral crafters create synthetic versions. Buyers often choose coral types that suit their tastes and the jewelry's purpose. The design of coral strands also gives coral jewelry a broad appeal. They are suited for everyday wear and special occasions, adding versatility to wardrobes. Coral jewelry is also gifted, collected, and used in cultural practices. Crafters need to care for coral strands to maintain their quality and appearance. Buyers also learn to choose genuine coral strands, making them responsible for the creation of timeless pieces of coral jewelry.