How to care for corals?

All corals consist mainly of calcite or a protein substance (keratin), less often aragonite, and therefore have a low hardness and require careful maintenance. As a result, corals in jewelry can be prone to abrasion and scratching. Corals are prone to discoloration when exposed to ultraviolet rays. Therefore, it is recommended to protect corals from direct and prolonged exposure to sunlight. In view of the natural porosity of coral, even if it has a surface coating, it is better for it not to come into contact with coloring substances, including those applied to any surfaces (for example, fabrics with dyes). Due to their special structure, it is advisable not to expose corals to heat and sudden changes in temperature and not to store them in places that are too dry, as coral can crack, losing structural water. Also, coral can absorb water, which leads to the destruction of protective coatings, therefore, unnecessarily damp places are also contraindicated for storage. Corals, like other organogenic gemstones, are very sensitive to the effects of aggressive media - acids, alkalis, solvents; therefore, it is necessary to protect coral products from the effects of certain detergents, as well as certain types of cosmetics, such as varnishes and their removers. It should be remembered that although many corals have not been exposed to the dye, they usually undergo a “stabilization” procedure with wax and other organic compounds that can deteriorate upon contact with any aggressive environment. Some coral species have a zonal coloration, which can be concentrated in the near-surface part of the product, and when polished again, it is lost. In this regard, it is necessary to be very careful when polishing corals. Coral products are washed in warm, non-corrosive liquids, followed by wiping with soft cloths or suede. Cleaning using ultrasound is strictly contraindicated.