In these two photographs, we can see close-up images of four small rectangular tabular beads, and one round tabular. This shows the variety of color combinations and the dispersion of the polyp patterns in the material being used.

I can only assume the stone is immersed in an iron-rich solution, and then heated until it takes on a variegated red coloration. Unlike dying, this treatment (in copying nature) is permanent.

I will be the first to say this material is very attractive—but I think people deserve to know the facts, and to not be sold this stuff as though it were "natural."

JDA.