Featured Chunky sponge coral beadz

I'm presuming these are a dyed sponge coral,they are quite large, strangely heavy

Thought they were bakelite when I bought them

Thought I would check to see if they do look dyed or not

Any thoughts appreciated

 

• The milk test

All you will need for this test is your red coral bead and a glass of milk. As you drop the bead in the glass, the milk should transform into a shade of red. The reaction between the milk and chemical makeup of red corals causes this visible change.

• The imperfection test

First, place your coral bead on a white cloth or neutral background with a quality light source. Next, take a magnifying glass to get a closer look at the bead’s surface. If the surface is uneven and covered in bumps or granules, it is not the real gem. Real coral beads have a smooth surface, even under strong magnification. The same applies to corals with visible dents or holes on the surface. When holding your beads, you should notice they are smooth to the touch.

• The tapping test

Take your bead in your hand and tap on it with your fingernail. As you tap, pay attention to the kind of sound it makes. If it sounds like you are tapping on a glass object, you most likely are holding a fake since many imitation corals are made with dyed glass.

• The turmeric test

Purchase a piece of fresh, raw turmeric and rub it against the coral’s surface. If you notice any red marks on the turmeric, it is an imitation gemstone. True coral stones will not alter turmeric’s surface.

Natural vs. Dyed Coral Beads: How to Spot the Difference — The Bead Traders

 

If they were died wouldn't the colour be even all over?

 

no...u must be thinking of painted...

 

Those are dyed sponge coral for sure. Probably coated somehow too; if often is because the material is rough. They call this reddish version apple coral. It wasn't thought too highly of years ago, but it may be protected now. Lee Sands used to use a lot of it.

 

I agree, dyed sponge coral.

It is not protected, and still not thought of very highly. Not just cheap, but thanks to the dye, cheerful too. You can find them in different fashionable or seasonal colours.