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The rich, red, lustrous beauty of Coral Beads has been prized for thousands of years. While precious coral, which is cut and polished from the skeletal remains of deep water sea creatures, is an endangered species, these beads are now also being fashioned from other varieties of coral or are dyed. Red coral beads are believed to have healing properties and are especially popular for traditional Nigerian wedding jewelry. Because we buy beads in volume, the Bead Traders can always offer affordable beads and beading supplies online. Ask one of our friendly and knowledgeable representatives if you have any questions, as we are always available and happy to assist you.
Origins of Precious Coral
Precious coral is made from a species of coral called Corallium rubrum. Unlike the species of coral that form coastal coral reefs, precious coral grows at the dark sea bottom. These creatures are native to the Mediterranean Sea but have become endangered, and the easier to access habitats in the region are drastically over-harvested. Another species, Corallium japonicum, is found in the Pacific around Japan and Taiwan, although they grow at depths greater than 350 meters and the currents are strong in these areas, which makes it difficult to gather coral in these areas.
Red Coral Beads
Dyed coral beads and precious coral feature a vibrant spectrum of colors, which range from pale pink to pinkish orange and dark red. As a matter of fact, the word ‘coral’ is often used to describe an orange red color. Coral beads hold their color well and have been used in jewelry making at least since the ancient Egyptians, and coral was very popular in Victorian times. Chokers made of strings of highly polished coral beads are part of traditional Nigerian wedding attire, and are often part of a matching set with bracelets and earrings.
The Powers of Coral
Various powers have been ascribed to coral over the centuries. Indians and Romans believed it to be an effective protection against the evil eye. Romans gave their children necklaces of coral beads to protect them from danger, and as recently as the early 20th century, women in Italy still wore coral as a cure for infertility. Today, some people wear red coral beads to reduce congestion and cleanse, rebuild, and strengthen the bloodstream. Some people believe that coral can slow the aging process.
Get Your Coral Beads From GiveMeMoreBeads
the Bead Traders inspects and hand chooses every bead we sell, and we only deal in the highest quality beads on the market. We won’t sell you any items that we wouldn’t want to purchase ourselves, and after ten years in the bead business, we know what quality looks like.