Coral has been found off the Hawaiian Islands, in the Mediterranean Sea, Cape Verde Islands, Japan, Portugal, and Taiwan. Coral ranges in colors from red, pink, orange and black.

Some of the most valuable coral is the red branchy coral. 

Coral was used in ancient Egyptian burial sites. In Tibet Coral was found in jewelry dating back to the 17th century. In the 1800-1900's Coral's popularity spread throughout Italy and was considered high in value and used in the finest jewelry.

After many years of coral mining the reefs became stripped, climate change and pollution also had a great impact on coral growth, the coral reefs around the world have started to die off. Coral itself used in jewelry is actually not an actual living specimen, it is the carbonate secretions of the living specimen. In order for this specimen to thrive it relies on the carbonate secretion. Today there are many parts of the world that are actively trying to protect coral reefs. In Hawaii many beaches has activists making sure people do not walk on the coral, and even require certain suntan lotions not to be worn in the ocean that can have a negative impact on the coral's environment.

Tiffany & Company was known in the Victorian era for its fine carved coral jewelry and beads. Today they are  part of the coral conservation community and have donated millions to protect coral reefs around the world. 

Rare Bead Treasure's also is for the conservation of coral reefs. All Coral sold on Rare Bead Treasures is antique and not coming from our Ocean today.