Sea coral designs branch into home furnishings

In some cultures, coral has been revered since early civilization. For the ancient Greeks, it was a symbol of rebirth based on the myth of the beheading of Medusa, when her gushing blood is said to have changed into coral on contact with the sea. The Chinese consider it a symbol of social status and wealth, and look to it for protection, happiness and even eternity. Coral is considered an amulet for a blissful marriage and for preventing fever, smallpox and failed pregnancy.

Myths, symbols and superstitions aside, there are other reasons to love coral's linear patterns and characteristic hues as well as its shapes. At its most vivid end of the orange-red spectrum, the color is electric, especially in neutral spaces. But it also may co-exist in startling combinations with other brights, such as cobalt blue or lime green.

Coral's organic roots, of course, are savored as design elements based in nature. The intrinsic twisting, branching form is intriguing, whether it is expressed in an all-over pattern or small sprays. Veining on white is almost startling, while some coral networks are more like tendrils on a vine.

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