HTS US: 0508.XX.XXXX
Description
This heading covers natural coral, precious and semi-precious stones, and similar materials. These materials are generally used in jewelry, ornamentation, and industrial applications. The classification includes various forms and preparations such as raw, worked, cut, and unworked stones, as well as powdered or granulated materials.
- Natural Coral: Includes unworked, worked, and polished coral, whether or not roughly trimmed or roughly shaped.
- Precious and Semi-Precious Stones: Covers stones such as diamonds, sapphires, emeralds, rubies, and other precious or semi-precious stones, whether or not worked or graded but not strung, mounted, or set.
- Other Similar Materials: Includes certain other natural materials used as gemstones or in decoration, like amber and jet.
Code Hierarchy
- Section I:
- Live Animals; Animal Products (Chapters 01-05)
- Chapter 05: Products of Animal Origin, Not Elsewhere Specified or Included
- Heading 0508: Coral and similar materials, unworked or worked; shells of molluscs, crustaceans or echinoderms and cuttle-bone, unworked or worked (but not powdered), powder and waste thereof.
- US HTS Code (10-digit):
0508.XX.XXXX– The final digits specify the exact material and processing state.
Detailed Breakdown of Subheadings
The 4-digit HS heading 0508 is subdivided into specific 6-digit and 10-digit codes identifying the type of material and its working state.
| HS/HTS Code | Description | Examples & Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 0508.00 | Coral and similar materials | Includes natural coral in various forms. |
0508.00.1000 |
Natural coral, unworked | |
0508.00.2000 |
Natural coral, worked but not mounted or set | |
| 0508.10 | Precious and semi-precious stones, unworked or roughly trimmed | Includes raw gemstones not cut or polished. |
0508.10.1000 |
Diamonds, unworked or roughly trimmed | |
0508.10.2000 |
Other precious and semi-precious stones, unworked or roughly trimmed | |
| 0508.20 | Precious and semi-precious stones, worked but not mounted or set | Cut, polished, or otherwise worked stones not strung or set in jewelry. |
0508.20.1000 |
Diamonds, worked but not mounted or set | |
0508.20.2000 |
Other precious and semi-precious stones, worked but not mounted or set | |
| 0508.30 | Shells of molluscs, crustaceans or echinoderms and cuttle-bone, unworked or worked (but not powdered) | Natural shells and cuttle-bones, raw or worked, used for ornamental or industrial purposes. |
0508.30.1000 |
Unworked shells and cuttle-bones | |
0508.30.2000 |
Worked shells and cuttle-bones (e.g., polished, shaped) | |
| 0508.40 | Powder and waste of coral, shells, and similar materials | Material waste, powder or granulated forms for industrial or decorative use. |
0508.40.1000 |
Powder of coral | |
0508.40.2000 |
Powder and waste of shells and similar materials |
What is NOT Classified Here?
To avoid misclassification, note these exclusions:
- Jewelry and articles set with precious or semi-precious stones
- are classified under Chapter 71.
- Artificial or synthetic stones are classified under Chapter 71 or other relevant headings.
- Metal ores and concentrates are excluded and classified under Chapter 26.
- Powdered or waste precious metals fall under Chapter 71.
Notes
- Import Regulations:
- Coral and precious stones are often subject to strict import controls, including CITES regulations for endangered species like certain corals.
- Duty Rates: Duty rates can vary based on the specific 10-digit code and the material’s working state; some may be duty-free or subject to reduced rates under trade agreements.
- Certification Requirements: Some stones and coral may require certificates of origin, authenticity, or compliance with environmental regulations.
Declaration Example
Product:
Shipment of worked natural coral pieces for jewelry making.
US HTS Code:
0508.00.2000(Natural coral, worked but not mounted or set)Unit of Quantity: Kilogram (kg)
General Duty Rate: Check current USHTS (Rates vary; often subject to CITES and environmental controls)
Additional Requirements: CITES permit if applicable, certificate of origin.
Related HTS Codes
- HTS 7103:
- Precious stones (other than diamonds), worked or unworked.
- HTS 7102: Diamonds, whether or not worked.
- HTS 9601: Worked ivory and articles thereof (similar natural materials).
- HTS 0507: Ivory, tortoise shell, whalebone and other animal carving materials.
