Coral Carving

Coral carving activity reached a great development in Italy as early as 15th century. Jewish artisans from Trapani, Sicily, were the first to start the activity of coral fishing and manufacturing, especially for the realisation of holy objects. When the Jewish communities were forced to leave Sicily because of the Argons domination, they moved to Naples, Livorno and Genoa, where their art was soon appreciated and assimilated by local craftsmen.

Coral Fishing

Mediterranean red coral (Corallium Rubrum) is formed in branching colonies which may exceed even 40-50 metres in height. The most superficial corals, found at 50 metres below the sea level, are characterised by thick and small size colonies, with little market value, while the deepest corals, growing beyond 50 metres below the sea level, are characterised by big and scattered colonies, with higher market value.

Scientific Research

Scientific research had and still has an important role in the management of coral fishing and manufacturing, in both the Mediterranean and Pacific areas. The main goals of the scientific studies are to provide sustainable instruments for coral preservation, as well as better strategies to protect this important marine resource from exploitation. Recent researches on Mediterranean coral colonies, conducted by simulating the reproduction rate over time, have shown that there are still active colonies in the Mediterranean, whose protection is fundamental for their survival.