Mediterranean Coral in Native American Jewelry

Mediterranean Coral in Native American Jewelry Coral arrived in the Southwest along Spanish trade routes in the 1600s and was quickly adopted by Pueblo and Navajo makers. Deep red Mediterranean coral (Corallium rubrum) is traditionally paired with turquoise and sterling silver, creating the iconic red‑blue‑silver palette of Southwest jewellery. Coral grades include ox‑blood red, standard red, pink and salmon tones. It is used as natural branch pieces set directly in silver or as polished cabochons, with each Southwest tribe applying its own design conventions. Genuine Mediterranean coral shows a fine grain structure and natural weight, while imitations such as dyed bamboo, reconstituted or glass coral lack these characteristics. Responsible sources prefer vintage or regulated‑harvested coral.