Black Coral
Colour: Black, sometimes dark brown or reddish.
Chemical Composition: Organic material made from the skeletal remains of coral (calcium carbonate and other organic compounds).
Hardness: 3 - 4 on the Mohs scale.
Transparency: Opaque.
Lustre: Dull to vitreous, sometimes waxy when polished.
Historical and Geological Background: Black coral is a type of coral typically found in deep ocean waters, and it has been used for thousands of years by various cultures in jewellery, amulets, and talismans. Ancient Egyptians, Polynesians, and Native Americans have all valued black coral for its protective and healing qualities. It forms intricate, tree-like skeletal structures that can be polished to a glossy, smooth finish, making it a popular material in jewellery-making. Found mainly in tropical and subtropical waters, black coral is particularly abundant in the waters around Hawaii, the Caribbean, and the Red Sea.
Metaphysical Associations:
Chakra: Root.
Element: Water, Earth.
Planet: Pluto.
Zodiac Sign: Scorpio.
Healing and Therapeutic Uses:
Physical Healing: Black coral is believed to aid in healing issues related to the skeletal and muscular systems, especially joint pain and arthritis. It is thought to strengthen bones and enhance the body’s ability to absorb calcium.
Blood Circulation: It is also thought to improve blood circulation and help with issues such as anaemia and circulatory disorders.
Detoxification: Black coral is believed to assist in detoxifying the body by supporting the liver and kidneys in removing toxins and balancing fluids.
Spiritual and Esoteric Uses:
Protection: Black coral is known for its strong protective qualities. It is used as a shield against negative energy, psychic attacks, and harmful influences. It helps to keep the user safe in difficult environments or situations.
Transformation and Rebirth: Like other forms of coral, black coral is connected to the ocean’s deep, transformative energies. It is associated with cycles of birth, death, and rebirth, helping users to embrace change and transformation on their spiritual path.
Grounding and Stability: This coral has a grounding energy that helps users stay centred and connected to the Earth. It is ideal for those who feel ungrounded or overwhelmed by life’s challenges.
Emotional and Mental Aspects:
Emotional Healing: Black coral supports emotional healing, particularly during times of grief, loss, or major life transitions. It encourages users to release old emotional baggage and embrace emotional renewal.
Stress Relief: This stone is known to reduce stress and anxiety by promoting emotional calmness and mental clarity. It provides a sense of stability and balance, especially in times of chaos or uncertainty.
Confidence and Resilience: Black coral promotes confidence and resilience, helping individuals face challenges with courage and strength.
Numerology:
Numerological Significance: Resonates with the number 8, symbolising power, success, and personal transformation.
Additional Properties:
Strengthening Intuition: Black coral helps enhance intuitive abilities and psychic awareness, making it ideal for those engaged in spiritual work or meditation.
Healing Relationships: It is believed to help heal damaged relationships by promoting forgiveness, understanding, and emotional openness.
Absorbing Negative Energy: Black coral absorbs and transmutes negative energy, preventing it from affecting the user’s emotional and spiritual well-being.