Let the Festivities Begin...

Christmas Cat

I have just launched the Coral Collection of handcrafted gemstone jewellery in my Etsy shop.  I was starting to feel festive and Christmassy after putting the Christmas tree up with the family after Sunday lunch last weekend, and this inspired me to create some new handcrafted jewellery pieces in bright Christmassy Red.....and it doesn't get much redder than coral jewellery!

Red Coral and Silver Bali-style Bead Necklace
https://www.etsy.com/listing/114695379/coral-collection-coral-and-silver

Did you know?

Only two types of coral can be used to create the red jewellery such as that in my Coral Collection.  These are: corallium rubrum and corallium japonicum, and they are found in the Mediterranean sea, off the coast of Australia, the South Pacific, and the waters of Japan and Africa.

Red Coral Bracelet

Coral is found in white, red, black to blue, and brown - red is most definitely the most popular of these colours.



Red Coral and Silver Bali-style Bead Bracelet
https://www.etsy.com/listing/114186803/coral-collection-coral-bracelet-coral

Coral has a similar chemical make-up to pearls.  Although it looks like a plant, it is the accummulated skeletal mass of living animals called polyps.  It can grow up to 40 cm tall with branches 4 cm thick - imagine the chunky jewellery I could make with that!!

Coral is susceptible to bright light and is soft so care should be taken when coming into contact with chemicals such as soap and perfume.

Orange Sponge Coral, Cream Coral and Bronze Ceramic Bead Necklace

Amongst its many meanings, coral is said to ward off evil spirits, prevent ill fortune, strengthen self esteem, and soothe fears.  It symbolises life and blood force energy.

Orange Sponge Coral and Crackle Fire Agate Necklace

I have always been fascinated with coral and its many forms- I have had coral trees as ornaments in my home, they are awesome just to sit and look at.  Nature really is amazing!