This very rare, exceptionally beautiful, necklace of discs accented by spheres is made from red fossil coral (Corallium rubrum) harvested from ancient marine basins near Sianchang in northwestern China.  Corals are marine animals.  Fossil coral forms when their skeletons create hardened preserved deposits.  Red fossil coral is a natural gemstone that is created when prehistoric coral is gradually replaced with agate.

Unlike reef corals, red coral is originally found deep in the sea and builds tree like formations rather than bulk masses.  It is the only species that is red, both inside and out, while other corals owe their color to a thin outer layer of algae.

The red coral in this necklace has been polished.  The veins which are visible throughout the coral are characteristic of its natural appearance.  The polished black leather chain is a highly unusual and complex interpretation of braid work.

Red coral has, in recent years, become even more in demand throughout the world as prized fine jewelry.  There are strict limits imposed upon harvest quantities because of the high demand for red coral.  Over harvesting of the species and changes in its natural habitat have reduced the number of its population.  Highly prized since antiquity.

Silver chain extension with hook clasp.