Introduction

Coral is a beautiful organic gemstone that is formed from the skeletons of marine polyps. It’s available in a variety of colors, but the most popular ones are white and red. Italian and Japanese coral are two of the most well-known types of coral gemstones, but what’s the difference between them?

Composition

Both Italian and Japanese coral are composed of calcium carbonate, which is a combination of limestone and carbon dioxide. However, the chemical composition of Italian coral is slightly different from that of Japanese coral. Italian coral is made up mostly of calcite, while Japanese coral is primarily aragonite. These differences in composition can affect the color and quality of the coral.

Color

Italian coral is known for its deep, rich red color, while Japanese coral tends to be a lighter shade of red or pink. The difference in color is due to the different chemical composition of the two types of coral. Italian coral contains more iron oxide than Japanese coral, which gives it its distinctive color.

Rarity

Japanese coral is much rarer than Italian coral. This is because Japanese coral is only found in a few locations in the Pacific Ocean, while Italian coral is found in the Mediterranean Sea. Japanese coral is also more difficult to harvest, which makes it even more valuable.

Price

Due to its rarity, Japanese coral is much more expensive than Italian coral. The price of coral can vary depending on the size, color, and quality of the gemstone, but in general, Japanese coral can be up to ten times more expensive than Italian coral.

Uses

Both Italian and Japanese coral are used in jewelry, but they are also used in traditional medicine. Coral is believed to have healing properties and is often used to treat a variety of ailments, including asthma, arthritis, and digestive problems.

Durability

Coral is a relatively soft gemstone, with a hardness of 3 to 4 on the Mohs scale. This means that it can be easily scratched or damaged. Italian coral is slightly harder than Japanese coral, which makes it slightly more durable.

Conclusion

In summary, Italian and Japanese coral are two types of coral gemstones that differ in their chemical composition, color, rarity, price, and durability. Italian coral is more common and affordable, while Japanese coral is rarer and more expensive. Both types of coral are beautiful and have a variety of uses, from jewelry to traditional medicine. When choosing between Italian and Japanese coral, it’s important to consider your budget, the color and quality of the gemstone, and the purpose for which you plan to use it.