Daksha – Turquoise & Red Coral

Coral is an organic gem: the calcium carbonate skeleton built by colonies of tiny marine animals called polyps. It occurs in many colours, and red coral has historically been the most valuable.

Hardness

3-4 (Mohs)

Everyday wear

Coral is relatively soft and porous, so it should be stored separately from harder gems and kept away from knocks.

Care

Wipe with a soft cloth or rinse briefly in warm, soapy water without soaking; avoid ultrasonic and steam cleaners, heat, chlorinated pools and chemicals such as cosmetics and perfume.

Meaning and tradition

In Greek myth, red coral formed when Medusa's blood touched seaweed; ancient Romans believed coral calmed the waves, and Victorians wore coral beads for good luck. Many cultures have associated coral with happiness, wisdom and success.

Turquoise is a semi-translucent to opaque copper-bearing mineral (a hydrated copper aluminium phosphate) ranging from blue to green, often veined with remnants of its host rock (matrix).

Birthstone

December

Hardness

5-6 (Mohs)

Everyday wear

Turquoise is relatively soft and porous and is vulnerable to heat and chemicals, so occasional wear and protective settings are recommended.

Care

Clean with warm, soapy water only and never use steam or ultrasonic cleaners; keep it away from heat, acids, cosmetics, skin oils and perspiration, which can discolour it.

Meaning and tradition

Worn by ancient Egyptian rulers and treasured in Tibet and Native American cultures, turquoise was traditionally believed to bring good fortune. In European tradition, a gift of a turquoise ring means "forget me not".