Species Identification of Coral Jewellery by Genetic Testing: Case Studies, Experiences and Prospects

This article reviews and details how DNA testing can be used to identify species of precious coral used in jewellery. Since certain species are listed by CITES (Convention on Inter- national Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora), the correct identification of coral species is of utmost importance. We present case studies of loose and mounted coral samples tested at the Zurich Institute of Forensic Medicine in collaboration with the Swiss Gemmological Institute SSEF. Our findings also highlight the limitations of traditional gemmological testing in coral species identification (e.g. cases of misidentification, and new species discovered), and confirm the need for DNA analysis for accurate outcomes.