Hawaii State Gemstone or Gem

Black Coral

Adopted on April 22, 1987.

Black coral was adopted as Hawaii's official state gem on April 22, 1987. The black coral which grows in Hawaii's offshore waters has been established as the official state gem.

In the Hawaiian language, black coral is called ‘ēkaha kū moana and is the official state gem of Hawaii.

Since its discovery by early Hawaiian divers, harvesting of the spectacular corals has led to the establishment of a thriving black coral jewelry industry and enhanced visitor and resident appreciation of Hawaii's ocean resources.

Hawaii's state gem was promoted by scuba divers, perhaps supported by the local jewelry trade. Surprisingly, the Department of Land and Natural Resources testified in favor of its adoption.

Coral is created by sea life. It is the skeletal remains of coral polyps. Coral is calcium carbonate with a trade of carotene. Its color ranges from white to red. Red, pink, and white coral is mostly calcium carbonate. Black and golden coral is conchiolin. It is beautiful in rings, necklaces, and pendants.

Statute

Hawai`i Revised Statutes, Volume 1, Chapter 5, Section 5-15

Volume 1.
CHAPTER 5. EMBLEMS AND SYMBOLS.
SECTION 5-15

[§5-15] State gem. The black coral is established and designated as the official gem of the State. [L 1987, c 9, §1]