🪸 Can Coral Be Ethical? Yes—Here’s How Our Coral Supports, Not Harms, Our Oceans

Let’s talk coral. Not the lipstick shade (though it’s fabulous), but the real deal—the intricate, naturally sculptural stony coral pieces you’ll find in our shop. A lot of people ask, “Is this harming coral reefs?” or “Is it legal to sell real coral?”

We love that question, and the short answer is: Yes, our coral is ethical. And yes, it’s 100% legal and sustainably sourced. Here’s how we make sure of that—and why you can feel good about bringing one of these natural treasures home.

 

🌊 Coral Reefs Matter—So Does How We Source

Coral reefs are some of the most biodiverse and beautiful ecosystems on Earth. But like so many things we love in nature, they’re vulnerable—to pollution, warming oceans, overdevelopment, and climate change. That’s why how coral is collected and sold matters deeply to us.

We work with Tideline, a long-established supplier with decades of experience and a hands-on, ethical approach to coral trade. They’ve partnered with small-scale fishermen, local export authorities, and even represented our industry at international environmental conferences. They walk the walk.

 

 

✅ So What Makes Our Coral Sustainable?

1. It’s legally harvested under strict environmental guidelines.

Our coral is CITES Appendix II–listed, which means it’s not endangered, but is carefully monitored and managed. Every single piece is:

• Reviewed by local wildlife agencies
• Harvested on a sustainable yield basis
• Permitted for export by the country of origin
• Imported under oversight from U.S. Fish & Wildlife

2. It’s a renewable natural resource.

Stony coral species like Acropora can grow up to 12 inches per year in the right conditions. That means they’re not only beautiful—they’re re-harvestable, when managed properly.

3. Some are grown, not gathered.

Through mariculture programs (think coral gardening), many of our pieces are farmed in protected lagoons where coral fragments grow in low-impact environments. This relieves pressure on wild reefs while supporting coastal communities.

 

 

⚠️ Real Reef Threats? Think Bigger Than Décor

There are real dangers facing coral reefs today—but they aren’t caused by ethical decorative trade. The major threats are:

• 🌡️ Rising ocean temperatures (which cause mass bleaching)
• 🧪 Ocean acidification from human-generated CO₂
• 🏗️ Poor coastal development and pollution
• 🎣 Overfishing and reef destruction from unsustainable practices

This is why it’s more important than ever to support trade that encourages stewardship, not harm.

 

🌱 The Bottom Line

We’re ocean lovers, reef nerds, and nature protectors. The coral in our shop reflects that. It’s real, yes—but it’s responsibly sourced, carefully monitored, and often even farmed.

So when you bring home one of these stunning pieces, you’re not just adding a coastal vibe to your home—you’re supporting a network of sustainable practices that help protect the reefs for future generations.

If you ever have questions, ask away—we love talking coral.