For centuries India has been perceived as the land of fabulous riches of wisdom, mystique and romance. Indian jewellery has a variety with few parallels in the world. Apart from being a means of ornamentation, it has great cultural and religious significance with certain ornaments worn on specific occasions. Aesthetically, it stands apart from western jewellery in that each item is painstakingly handcrafted. The importance of jewellery, in India, where even today the burden of debt accompanying the enormous outlay at Hindu marriages is a matter of concern. Gold is associated in India with Lakshmi, the Goddess of prosperity and precious stones.

Coral is generally red and sindoori (vermilion) in colour. The use of coral in jewellery dates back to the Romans who considered it auspicious when worn in amulets. The coral, though not a precious stone, has been given a coveted place in Navaratnas. A good coral is perfectly round or oval and is smooth. It is considered flawed if it is spotted, cracked, has more than one shade of colour or the surface is twisted. The coral is also found in white and yellow colours and changes its colour as a warning of the ill health of its wearer. A coral protects against evil spirits and has the power to avert accidents. It is associated with marital happiness and should be removed at night. It is also recommended for brides as a sign of good luck.

Coral influences Mangal or Mars which is responsible for the field of activity, energy, courage, ambition, sports, property, strength, forcefulness and bravery. In Jyotish, Mangal is known as the commander-in-chief, due to its influence in organizing and managing direction in activity. Mangal or Mars is like a General with its focus on precision and power in activity. It is believed to cure blood disorders, arthritis, blisters, bronchitis, backaches, chickenpox, colour blindness, constipation, cramps, common cold, cataract, ear diseases, diabetes, foot trouble, fever, gallstones, gout, hay fever, hernia, jaundice, malaria, measles, mumps, piles, toothaches, and is also capable of preventing miscarriages.