Coral can do no wrong! Since ancient times red coral was believed to cure madness, give wisdom, prevent sterility, calm storms, and provide protection against plague and pestilence.(Oh my!)
As a talisman used to ward off the evil eye and bad luck, it was common throughout history to see children and young women to wear coral necklaces for protection and to find babies' rattles made out of the wonderful stuff.
The Goldsmith by Petrus Christus, 1449. The Metropolitan Museum of Art
American Silver and Coral Baby's Rattle, 1735-1745. The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Portrait of a Boy with a Coral Rattle, 1650-1660.
18th-Century Mahogany 'Cabinet of Curiosity'. Collecting & Display, Alistair McAlpine
Faux Red Coral Sconces (source unknown!) That vibrant red color is so striking it is not uncommon to find imitation coral designs.
An exotic deep-sea creature, Coral's has always been difficult to obtain and scarce in quantity. Thus, it is often found the locked doors of so called 'Cabinets of Curiosities'. Today, because of its scarcity, red coral is a protected species and most large specimens are usually antique, difficult to obtain and costly.
Antique Giltwood 'Cabinet of Curiosity'. Collecting & Display, Alistair McAlpine
Red Coral Specimen on a Carved Wood Base
Van Royen $350
Coral's unique red color is described by no other name.
A Very Large and Antique Piece of Red Coral available for sale Van Royen