Italian Mediterranean Red Coral FAQ
■ Do you manufacture coral in Torre del Greco?
Yes, we manufacture Mediterranean red coral, mainly from Sardinia Island in our factory in Torre del Greco.
■ Despite the enormous competition of exotic countries, does Mediterranean coral handiwork and in particular the Torre del Greco production, still keep a good competitive edge?
Coral artistic handiwork from Torre del Greco, as that from Trapani, Alghero and other towns in southern Italy, is greatly superior to the oriental production, for its imaginative carving. However, it must be said that excellent coral branch carvers are also present in China and Japan, where they use technical know-how passed down from the 18th century.
■ Despite the enormous competition of exotic countries, does Mediterranean coral handiwork and in particular the Torre del Greco production, still keep a good competitive edge?
Coral artistic handiwork from Torre del Greco, as that from Trapani, Alghero and other towns in southern Italy, is greatly superior to the oriental production, for its imaginative carving. However, it must be said that excellent coral branch carvers are also present in China and Japan, where they use technical know-how passed down from the 18th century.
■ What is the difference between smooth treatment and carving?
With carving, coral is carved according to the end-user’s requests, i.e. a cameo carving with figures, animals, leaves, amphorae, etc. In the smooth treatment, instead, coral is not carved in any way and remains “smooth”, i.e. rounded or tube-shaped.
■ How does one see the difference between authentic coral and imitation coral?
It’s always best to rely on the experts, given that some imitations are made using coral powder which may deceive someone without sufficient competence on the matter.
■ Is red coral always the most sought-for and characteristic type in jewellery?
The “deep red” and angelskin” qualities are by far the most sought-after and expensive. Jewelers all over the world create marvelous jewels using these two qualities, in combination with bright red coral in the same pieces of artwork.
■ Has the demand for coral jewellery remained stable in these years?
Demand has remained practically stable in the last 10 to 20 years. The most sought-after jewels remain complete sets composed of earrings, bracelet, brooch and necklace, possibly still in their period jewel cases. In addition to coral carved bracelets representing flowers, female figures and animals.
■ Besides Italians, do many foreign collectors turn to you to buy a piece of coral jewellery? What countries do they come from?
The Italians are definitely the most sophisticated among collectors, as they are greatly prepared on the matter, much more that any of the foreign enthusiasts. Foreign researchers are mainly from the U.K. and France. Their passion for coral dates back to the 19th century when they used to buy corals in Naples or Torre del Greco during their Grand Tours of Italy.
■ Do young people turn to you to buy a piece of coral jewelry? What kind of jewelry do they buy?
Recently red coral horn, used as pendant or lucky charm, is very trendy among young people. It was used also by famous stylists like Dolce & Gabbana and famous soccer players, like the Nakata and David Beckham. Red coral branches, used as pendant or brooch, are becoming quite popular too.
■ Ideas on pricing?
Price depends from weight, size, color, quality and artist name if carved.
