Coral comes from two Greek words meaning “daughter of the sea,” says Scott Cunningham. Another source, D.J. Conway writes that the name coral comes from the Greek word korallino and the Latin word corallium.
Hardness: 3.5 – 4
Energy: Receptive
Planet: Venus
Sign: Pisces
Elements: Water, Akasha
Deities: Isis, Venus, The Great Mother
Associated Metals: Silver, Copper
Powers: Healing, regulating menstruation, agriculture, protection, peace & wisdom
Sources & Facts:
Colors: There are some white, blue, gold and black assortments. The usual varieties are from the flesh-toned pink through the spectrum to red. The color-groupings for coral are: Arciscuro, a very dark red often called ox blood; Rosso Scuro, dark red; Rosso, red; Secondo Coloro, salmon; Rosa Vivo, bright rose; Rosa Pallido, pale rose; Pelle D’Angello, flesh pink often called angel skin, which is usually the most expensive variety of coral.
The most high-quality coral is fished from the western-Mediterranean Sea. It is also taken from along the coasts of Greece, the Greek Islands, Canary Islands, Tunisia, Morocco, Algeria, the Malaysian Archipelago, Japan, Northern Australia, and the Red Sea. It is also abundant in the Philippines, Hawaii, Indian Ocean, and Alaska.
Coral is an organic material which solidified into a stone-like substance; they are organic gems, gifts from the sea. It is formed out of an aggregate of coral polyp skeletons. When alive, these polyps are microscopic living creatures that live in great colonies. When they die, their remains (a plant-like skeleton), which are mostly calcium carbonate, build up to form coral reefs. The famous Petoskey stones of Lake Michigan are actually fossilized coral. (Macha’s note: Did you know that entire downtown Chicago is build upon a humungous coral reef?) The most valuable variety of coral is the branch-like coral called Corallium rubrum, Corallium nobile, or “precious coral.”
Antipathes Spiralis is a special black type of coral harvested from the sea of Hawaii. The Indian Ocean is another source of this black coral. Unlike other corals, black coral is composed of an organic material called “chitin,” which is related to human hair and nails, and sheep’s wool.
Found in the Philippines and the Cameroons, is a blue variety of coral called Allopara subirolcea. The coasts of Hawaii, Alaska, Japan and Australia have an attractive golden coral, Parazoanthus Spirals.
Archeologists have dated the earliest findings of human-used red coral, found in Mesopotamia, at about 3,000 B.C.E.
History, Folklore, and Magical Ritual Lore:
In ancient times, red coral was a gift from the deities. It was found on beaches around the world, but most often in Italy. To be powerful in magic, ancient peoples use coral which had not been worked by human hands, meaning not ground or shaped, and was unpolished. Because coral was thought to be alive (as it once was) people believed that any processing done to it would “kill” the magical energies within it. This is not absolutely true today, but one belief is still current – if a piece of coral used in magic breaks for any reason, it has lost its power and a new piece must be obtained. The broken pieces should be returned to the ocean, if possible. (Macha’s note: If you feel that you will never be getting to the ocean or sea to return the piece of coral, I would seek out a lake or river which started out nature-made, and deposit it there.)
The most important use of coral by ancient peoples was for protection, particularly from the evil eye. In some cultures today, coral rattles in bells, or simply coral pieces are hung in the house to drive away evil spirits. From Naples to the south, red coral is still known as “Witch Stone,” and is believed to protect against evil magic and bewitchment.
Some writers say that wearing dark brown coral can lead one to fall into the darker side of magic and using magic for bane. The scientist, Paracelcus (1495-1541), the red coral was feared by evil spirits; however, he also warned that such spirits were attracted to brown coral. Part of this belief still remains in the East where to wear dull, discolored, or dirty coral is considered to attract misfortune of all kinds.
Another Italian notion is that coral should be hung in the house to repel envy, disharmony, and evil influences. It will also keep away nightmares and protect against lightening.
Coral was also said to prevent epilepsy. Coral jewelry was said to turn pale if the wearer became ill and recover its color if the wearer became well. The Romans tied pieces of red coral to the cradles and hung coral around the necks of children to help them with teething and to ward off disease.
In present day, it is still common to see coral nailed to the mast of small Mediterranean vessels to guide them safely home, as this was an ancient Greek custom to nail red coral to the ship’s bow to aid in a safe return to shore.
Around the Mediterranean, women wore coral to become pregnant. It was also hung on fruit and olive trees to ensure a good crop. Also, in the Mediterranean, coral, like amber, was thought to contain the “life essence” of the Mother Goddess who dwelled in the ocean in a “tree” of coral.
Among the Hopi and Zuni, the Road of Life was symbolized by coral, jet, abalone, and turquoise. The Pueblo Indians considered red coral to be one of the stones of the four elements.
There is a Hindu belief that the ocean is the home of human souls after death, and so coral is considered a powerful amulet for the living. It is also placed on the body of the deceased to prevent evil spirits from occupying it.
In ancient Norse mythology, coral is linked with deity.
In 1564, powdered coral was still being prescribed by physicians for contagious infections, heart problems and hemorrhages.
Good pieces of coral are valued as good luck charms for dancers.
To dream of red or pink coral foretells recovery from illness.
Healing Energies:
Coral is considered helpful in easing anemia. The red or white varieties have long been considered helpful in healing mental diseases. Wear red coral to dispel indigestion, all pains in the digestive tract, eye complaints, and to staunch blood.
Magical Properties & Uses:
It is said that coral is useful in rituals to stop or prevent whirlwinds or storms.
By calming emotions, coral can help with communication and understanding. It repels negative thoughts of ill-wishers.
Coral if very strong in its protective vibrations and wearing jewelry made of coral is a good idea. Hang a piece or red or white coral in your car to help prevent accidents and in your home to protect your possession, pets and family. Tuck some in your baggage to help it from getting lost during travel.
Blue coral helps one to let out the inner child of play. Black heals fears and anxieties, is good for past-life reviews, and creates harmony and balance. Red or white coral calms storms, gives wisdom, and helps one to safely cross over rivers. They also create emotional openness, affection, and love. As a symbol of life energy, red coral can help you to remember what you hear and see during meditation. Use sponge coral to create a child-like fun mood.
Use coral against the evil eye, furies, succubi, incubi and phantasma, among other ills. It guards against accidents, acts of violence, poison, theft, possession, and sterility (especially in women).
Wear coral to effect inner changes. It dispels foolishness, nervousness, fear, depression, murderous thoughts, panic and nightmares. Place coral under your pillow to produce peaceful sleep by driving away disturbing dreams. Coral confers reason, prudence, courage and wisdom upon its bearer.
Take a piece of coral and touch it to every door, wall and window of your home or apartment while moving in a clockwise direction to attract luck, then put it in place of prominence and let it do its magic; this may also work well for drawing luck to your business.
Coral earrings were worn by women in ancient Rome to attract men. Powdered coral was used in 16th-century Venusian incenses, and red or pink candles ringed with pieces of coral are burned to draw love.
Red coral is an excellent first gemstone to give to children as it can strengthen and support their growth, and due to corals protective qualities.
Since coral is related to the ocean, wear it while sailing, and to protect against shark attack. Use it in magic and ritual concerning the Goddess Venus, may also be used, then, in rituals pertaining to Aphrodite or other sea, ocean or in-land lakes deities.
SOURCES:
Crystal Enchantments by D.J. Conway
Cunningham’s Encyclopedia of Crystal, Gem & Metal Magic by Scott Cunningham.
Stone Power by Dorothee L. Mella
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Please read the following from The Coral Reef Alliance
http://www.coralreefalliance.org/
An Overview of The Coral Reef Alliance
The Coral Reef Alliance (CORAL) promotes coral reef conservation around the world by working with the dive industry, governments, local communities and other organizations to protect and manage coral reefs, establish marine parks, fund conservation efforts, and raise public awareness with the mission to keep coral reefs alive for future generations.
Why are coral reefs important?
Coral reefs are a vital component of ocean ecosystems, providing shelter for nearly one quarter of all marine life. As one of the most spectacular and ancient forms of life in the world, coral reefs provide a home for over 4,000 species of fish, 700 species of coral, and thousands of other animals and plants. The structure and biological diversity of coral reefs make them invaluable natural resources: reef animals and plants contain unique chemicals with great potential for use in modern medicine; coral reefs prevent beaches and shorelines from being washed away by acting as natural breakwaters; and coral reefs provide an important source of food and income for millions of people.
Are coral reefs in danger?
Yes. Coral reefs are among the world's most fragile and endangered ecosystems. Coral reefs are threatened by global warming, over-fishing, coastal development, sewage, agricultural runoff, improper marine recreation and a variety of other human-related problems. Already, 11% of the world's reefs have been lost and another 16 % were severely damaged during the 1998 El Niño event. Scientists predict that another 32% may be lost over the next thirty years if human threats are not reduced. The loss of healthy coral reefs would mean the extinction of thousands of marine species, as well as the elimination of a primary source of food, income and employment for millions of people around the world.
How does CORAL work to protect coral reefs?
CORAL invests time, energy and resources in creating Coral Reef Parks -- areas set aside to protect and preserve the beauty and health of coral reefs worldwide.
CORAL contributes grants ranging from $500 to $15,000 to local organizations in coral reef areas, including the Caribbean and the Pacific. Grants have been used to purchase outboard motors for boats used to patrol marine protected areas, help curb cyanide-fishing practices, and provide emergency relief for hurricane-struck reefs. Currently our grants support projects that strengthen Coral Reef Parks.
CORAL participates in governmental and non-governmental meetings that help create policy to protect coral reefs locally and set the global strategy for coral reef conservation. CORAL partners with the dive industry to promote responsible diving and a commitment to marine conservation within the industry.
CORAL raises public awareness about coral reefs and the threats they face through various mediums including in-flight videos, educational materials such as the Coral Friendly Guidelines and Coral Reef Factsheets, and our website, which is the most visited site for coral reefs.
CORAL gathers the support of thousands of divers, snorkelers and other coral reef enthusiasts to form a strong membership that convinces funders and policy-makers of the importance of reef conservation.
Where does CORAL get its support?
CORAL is supported by its members - thousands of scuba divers, snorkelers and other individuals throughout the United States and around the world who want to help keep coral reefs alive. CORAL also receives grants from foundations and donations from corporations that wish to support CORAL's work.
Are donations to CORAL tax-deductible?
Yes. The Coral Reef Alliance is a 501(c)3 tax-exempt, nonprofit organization, and all donations to CORAL are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law within the United States.
How can I become involved with CORAL?
Join CORAL! Your membership contribution will go toward supporting our programs and worldwide conservation efforts. You will receive up-to-date information about CORAL's projects and activities, as well as reports on the state of the reefs, dive trips, and volunteer opportunities. Become a member of CORAL today!
Become a CORAL Volunteer. CORAL has numerous volunteer opportunities for teachers, graphic artists, writers and others. With the help of concerned individuals like you, we can all play a part in keeping coral reefs alive! Contact us for more information.
Dive In To Earth Day! Take part in this global celebration of marine conservation. Join in an activity or start your own. Sign the Dive In Pledge. You can help protect coral reefs by diving responsibly showing support for coral parks and marine protected areas. It takes just two minutes to sign online.
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How do I contact CORAL?
Write, call, or email us
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San Francisco, CA 94104
USA
Tel: (415) 834-0900
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