What is Coral?
Like pearls, coral is not a mineral but a gemstone made from an animal. When people think of coral, the most familiar type that comes to mind today is the "reef-building coral" that creates coral reefs. The coral used as a gemstone is a type called "precious coral," which lives in the deep sea and is characterized by its hard skeleton. Depending on the type, it can be divided into "red coral," "peach coral," "penguin coral," and "white coral." Each type has a different color and texture, and the types that are loved vary depending on the region.
The history of coral in Japan
Coral has long been a familiar gemstone in Japan, as it has long been said to be "gold, silver, and coral, brocade," and its name is also found among the treasures brought back from Onigashima by Momotaro, and it is also depicted on the ship of the Seven Lucky Gods. It is said that the oldest coral in Japan is stored in the Shosoin Repository, where coral beads, coral beads, and coral logs are also stored. Records of coral were lost after that, but in the middle of the Edo period, coral was discovered in the deep sea off the coast of Tosa, and it developed into a traditional Japanese industry. It is now known around the world as a Japanese gemstone.
Handling Precautions
Coral is made of limestone, so it is easily corroded by acidic substances. Because sweat is a weak acid, we recommend wiping it lightly with a soft cloth after use before storing it. Coral is also sensitive to heat, so it is best stored in a cool place out of direct sunlight.
