Beautiful gemstones are created from ancient corals which have been fossilized over millions of years.
As the coral decays it is gradually replaced with agate, a type of microcrystalline quartz.
Coral are living marine creatures which exist in unique geological conditions in silica-rich waters.
They were wide spread during the Palaeozoic Era which was between 545 and 251 million years ago.
Over a period of 20 million years the once living marine creatures’ skeletons are fossilized and preserved into these amazing patterns.
Once this process has taken place, it forms a very hard agate stone which is much loved by skilled jewelry makers.
Corals belong to the same marine families as anemones and jellyfish. The bodies are slender and tube-like and look like the spokes of a wheel.
This patterning can be seen in polished gemstones like the one pictured above.
Fossilized coral
History of fossilized coral
The Gauls used coral gemstones to adorn their helmets and weapons because they believed the stone would protect them.
The Ancient Egyptians placed coral in the tombs of the dead to protect them from evil spirits. They believed that it contained the blood of the gods.
While the Romans used to place a stone around the necks of their children to protect them from danger.
What benefits are there from wearing fossilized coral?
While agate is associated with the zodiac signs of Scorpio and Gemini, it is said to be ruled by the Moon.
It will bring about positive changes for the wearer if needed.
The agate helps heal pancreatic disorder and improve blood and air circulation. It can also assist healing diseases of the eyes, skin and stomach.
It can also lead to improved longevity.
The warm and energizing tones of caramel and tan imbued into each piece will benefit the root and spleen chakras.
Wearing fossilized coral links one with the steady changes of Mother Earth. It sings a song of serenity to the inner goddess and remind her of the deep, metered evolution of herself and the natural world around her.
