Moonga
Red Coral, the gemstone of Mangal
Moonga is the gemstone of Mangal, or Mars, and like the pearl it is organic rather than mineral. Italian Mediterranean coral and Japanese coral are the two origins most sought after in India, the first for its even oxblood tone and the second for a brighter orange red.
In Vedic tradition Moonga is worn to support Mars, and is associated with courage, drive and physical stamina.
The stone itself
- Planet
- Mars / Mangal
- Rashi
- Aries / Scorpio
- Hardness
- 3.5 Mohs
- Colour
- Vivid Orange-Red
- Usual cut
- Smooth Cabochon
- Classic origin
- Mediterranean Sea
What to check before you pay
Dyed and reconstituted coral is common and difficult to spot by eye. Buy only against a report that confirms the material is natural and states whether it has been dyed or stabilised. Untreated coral of good colour is genuinely scarce, and a price that looks too easy usually is.
Traditional wearing guidance
As practised in Vedic tradition. Your astrologer’s instruction takes precedence over any general rule.
- Metal
- Gold or copper
- Finger
- Ring finger
- Day
- Tuesday, at sunrise
