Wow!!!
Incredible photos Brian!
I have always been fascinated by coral, and to see such profuse application as on these weapons is amazing.
Mark, I think the teardrop shape may pertain to the ancient Greek mythology that claims coral represents the drops of blood from the slain gorgon Medusa. Apparantly coral was esteemed in the East, and especially in India, where it held mysterious and sacred properties including of course protection from the evil eye. It is noted by Pliny that the Gauls used it in decorating weapons and helmets as well, and considerable trade was carried out in the Meditteranean with coral, much of it found along the North African coast.
The amuletic value seems to derive considerably from the blood color and that it is virtually a living mineral derived from the sea.
All best regards,
Jim