Coral Sclerites Hoop Earrings

Description

These gold plated 925 Sterling Silver hoop earrings are made by a very talented Thailandese designer inspired by the coral reefs surrounding her coastlines and now serve to support coral reef conservation in Costa Rica.

There are two main types of corals, hard and soft corals. Their main difference consists of the fact that hard corals are composed of calcium carbonate skeletons, which, growing over decades and centuries, create formations that we know as reefs.

To obtain support and rigidness, soft corals generate little calcified structures called sclerites. These look like spiny spicules, which not only helps to identify soft coral species but also deter predators if they take a bite. One of the few species able to feed on soft corals are hawksbill turtles.

The sclerites of the genus Leptogorgia, one of the most abundant genera in the eastern Pacific, grow into beautiful flower-like shapes. Because of this, we are introducing this lovely design of a coral-inspired necklace. If you are interested in learning more about this genus and all the wonderful shapes its sclerites can take, we invite you to read this article from the Costa Rican expert, Dr. Odalisca Breedy:

https://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/9193/5b928a689394a78e2047a4b0a5c68b56a164.pdf

By purchasing these coral sclerites hoop earrings, you can choose to support any of Equipo Tora Carey’s conservation projects, and as we grow, hopefully, the introduction of new projects on other key species, including corals. Also, if you ever want to visit the site and learn more about the projects, make sure to contact us or Equipo Tora Carey and schedule your visit!