Black branch coral necklace

I am pretty sure this necklace is genuine black branch coral. I showed it to someone who has been in the jewelry biz for years and she confirmed (but she is in her eighties. And still selling at an antiques market; I'm just not sure of her eyesight!). I did do a haphazard test (inconclusive), but then, my lemon juice is pretty old. Could anyone hazard a guess as to what area of the world it may be from? From the reading I've done so far, looks like it is deep sea coral. Also, she said that the shape of the small beads was unusual. Is this a statement I can use? The necklace is 34" long. Thanks for your input!!

 

From my understanding black coral is harvested in Hawaii mainly but found in the tropics. Could be a vintage tourist piece as I have had a lot of Hawaiian jewelry with that clasp (although its a common clasp so I wouldnt judge it on that alone). Hope that helps!

 

It is relatively rare and typically grows in deeper waters that free divers can work (100ft and downwards). You do not say where you are or where you may want to take it to. This matters as its trade, import and export is subject to banning or other controls in various places. Check the legal position before you try to move it.

 

Darn, that was in the back of my head also. I have read of at least moral qualms about selling coral (is it just the black coral?). Not sure of the legalities. I will look in to this. I am in MA and purchased this in a thrift store. My plan was to sell it on everyone's favorite auction site. There are active black branch coral listings on there.

 

There's never been a problem with selling coral jewelry. I've sold black pieces before without a peep out of anyone.

 

Just do not export it, as I think all coral now is CITES protected.