ITEM: Vintage 14k Gold Angel Skin Coral Stud Earrings

COMPOSITION: 14k Yellow Gold, Acid tested

GEM: Angel Skin Coral 12mm X 10mm

CONDITION: Estate Item, Very Good

WEIGHT: 4.9 Grams

MEASUREMENT: 5/8" X 1/2"

MARKS: None. Acid tested to 14k standard.

COMMENTS: Circa 1950-60's. These angel skin coral stud earrings are a light pink / ivory color. Around the stones is a twisted gold border. Pictured as received from a local estate. Very good estate condition with minimal wear indicative of age. Cleaning and/or polishing by request at no additional cost.

Most coral gemstones available today are varieties of Corallium rubrum, a very specific pink to red colored species of the coral genus. In the trade, Corallium rubrum is sometimes referred to as 'noble coral' and is considered to be the most desirable type of coral for jewelry. Noble coral also includes the popular 'angel skin coral', a pink to salmon colored coral.

Since the beginning of the 1st millennium, precious coral has been highly prized as a gem believed to be endowed with mysterious, powerful and sacred properties. The Gauls often used coral gems as ornamentation for their helmets and weapons in the belief 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.