| About Indonesian Fossil Coral |
: |
Fossil Coral Gemstone Information
About Fossil Coral - History and Introduction
Fossil Coral is a natural type of gemstone formed by ancient Corals.
The proper name for fossil Coral is 'Agatized Coral' or 'Agatized Fossil Coral', because during formation, the coral remains are gradually replaced with Agate, a variety of naturally occurring Chalcedony, or microcrystalline Quartz.
When prehistoric corals are fossilized through replacement with Agate, the fossil Coral forms through hardened deposits left by silica-rich waters. The entire process can take over 20 million years and occurs only under very unique geological conditions. Corals are marine animals and it is their skeletons that are fossilized and preserved, often leaving flower-like patterns in the stone.
Fossil Coral should not be mistaken for reef Coral or precious Coral. It is considered to be a type of Agate or Chalcedony, rather than a type of Coral, due to its silicon dioxide composition (SiO2).
Coral deposits have been mined and commercialized for their high calcium, potassium, magnesium and sodium content, and are often used for the making of health and drug supplements. Fossil Coral is used in industrial fertilizers and water purification filters because it can remove chemical impurities such as chlorine and formaldehyde.
Fossil Coral Mythology, Metaphysical and Crystal Healing Properties
Since fossil Coral is a combination of coral and agate, it carries many strong metaphysical beliefs. Agate is associated with the zodiacal signs Scorpio and Gemini, and agate is said to be ruled by the moon. It is a grounding stone and is supposedly good for bringing about change. Physically, Agate is thought to be able to help heal pancreatic disorders and improve blood and air circulation. It is used for healing illnesses of the eyes, skin and stomach, is even believed to enhance longevity.
Since the beginning of the 1st millennium, Coral has been highly prized as a gem because it was believed to have mysterious, powerful and sacred properties. The Gauls often used Coral gems as ornamentation for their helmets and weapons, believing that it was a protective stone.
Ancient Egyptians also placed coral in tombs of the deceased to protect against evil spirits because they believed each coral gem actually contained divine blood.
The Romans hung branches of Coral around the necks of their children to protect them from danger. In the early 20th century, the people of Italy used Coral for protection from the 'evil eye' and many Italians used it for infertility. Among the Hopi and Zuni tribes, the 'road of life' is symbolized by Coral, Jet, Abalone and Turquoise (the four elements). Although Coral is not a traditional birthstone for any month, it is a non-traditional zodiac stone for Taurus. Reddish and orange colored coral stones are thought to benefit the root and spleen chakras by providing energy and warmth.
|
|
