Coral, cameo, and amber: a complete guide – how to recognize them, their meaning, and buying tips
Coral, cameo, and amber: a complete guide – how to recognize them, their meaning, and buying tips
At the heart of Italian craftsmanship there are three materials that combine history, beauty and mystery : coral, cameo and amber.
These natural elements, transformed into unique jewels, tell ancient and fascinating stories. In this guide, we'll help you understand them better: how to recognize them, their profound meaning, and how to choose the right piece for you.
Coral: the bright red of the Mediterranean
✅ What is it and where does it come from?
The coral used in jewelry— particularly Mediterranean red coral (Corallium rubrum )—is an organic marine substance, harvested primarily between Sardinia and the Amalfi coast. It is polished and shaped to create earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and rings with timeless appeal.
🧿 Meaning and symbolism
Coral has always been considered a lucky charm: it protects against the evil eye, brings energy and vitality, and is often given to newborns to ward off negative influences.
🔍 How to recognize it
- It has a smooth but not perfectly uniform surface.
- If scratched or broken, a slight porosity may be noticeable.
- The color can vary from deep red to pale pink (“angel skin” coral).
- It is not plastic to the touch and does not heat up easily, unlike imitations.
The cameo: engraving between art and cameo
🕰️Cameo A little history
A cameo is a relief engraving made on materials such as shell or semiprecious stone. Torre del Greco, in Campania, is the cradle of the art of shell cameo making, a tradition passed down through generations.
✨ Meaning
Often depicting female faces, mythological or floral scenes, the cameo symbolizes refinement, memory and timeless femininity.
🔍 How to recognize an authentic cameo
- Hand-made engraving: small visible carving marks, not too regular.
- Natural material (shell or agate): when viewed against the light, slight transparency.
- The back is not flat like the industrial ones, but slightly concave.
Amber: The Stone of the Trapped Sun
🌳 Natural origin
Amber is not a stone, but fossilized resin from ancient conifers. The finest specimens come from the Baltic Sea and may contain natural inclusions (leaves, insects).
🌟 Meaning
Amber is associated with calm, purification, and healing. It is often used for protective jewelry and amulets.
🔍 How to recognize it
- It is light, almost warm to the touch.
- Rubbing it can produce static electricity.
- In salt water it floats, unlike synthetic resins.
- Resinous odor if heated slightly (avoid overly aggressive tests).
Buying Tips: How to Choose Your Perfect Jewelry
- Buy from certified and specialized retailers (such as Luciavitiello.it).
- Be wary of prices that are too low: an authentic cameo or coral is very valuable.
- Always ask for information about the material, origin and workmanship.
- Choose according to your style: coral for those who love energy, cameo for those who love history, amber for those seeking balance and protection.
Coral, cameos, and amber are not just jewels, but fragments of nature and culture that we carry with us.
Knowing how to recognize them means truly appreciating their value. At www.luciavitiello.it you'll find authentic pieces, selected with passion and skill.
✨ Discover the collection now and be inspired by natural beauty.