Butterfly-shaped pendant, made using copper electroforming, with a teardrop aquamarine stone of remarkable vitreous luster and a pink-magenta amethyst accent. The setting grows electrolytically around the stone — organic, solid, unique.
Piece Details
| Main Mineral |
Aquamarine (Beryl — Be₃Al₂Si₆O₁₈) |
| Accent Mineral |
Amethyst (Quartz — SiO₂) |
| Manufacturing Technique |
Copper Electroforming |
| Piece Dimensions |
Approx. 45 × 28 mm (butterfly + stone · ±2 mm) |
| Metal Finish |
Copper with natural dark patina |
| Stone Hardness |
Aquamarine: 7.5–8 Mohs · Amethyst: 7 Mohs |
| Mineral Origin |
Material acquired from wholesale lapidary market |
| Treatment |
No detectable treatment |
| Type |
One-of-a-kind piece |
This Specific Piece
The aquamarine in this pendant has a more pronounced vitreous luster than the previous one in the series: the polished surface vividly reflects light, and the stone's partial transparency is visible. The blue-green hue is clean, with no inclusions noticeable to the naked eye.
The amethyst accent is a pink-magenta tone — more vibrant and saturated than the deep violet of other pieces in the collection — and acts as a focal point between the copper wings and the aquamarine. The metal textures capture the organic reliefs characteristic of electroforming.
The Electroforming Process
Electroforming deposits copper onto the stone submerged in a copper sulfate bath under controlled electrical current. The metal grows layer by layer around the mineral to form a solid setting, without soldering or mechanical closures. The final geometry depends on the exact shape of that mineral fragment — which is why each piece is unique and cannot be serially reproduced.
Aquamarine in Lapidary Tradition
Its name comes from the Latin aqua marina — sea water — and accurately describes the color of the best specimens. A variety of beryl (emerald and heliodor family), with a hardness of 7.5–8 Mohs and excellent resistance to daily wear. In medieval Europe, it was classified among water gems and linked to sea voyages; in Rome, seals for navigators were carved into it.
In crystal tradition, aquamarine is associated with mental clarity and honest communication — the stone of one who chooses words before speaking.
The symbolic properties attributed to minerals belong to cultural and historical traditions. They are shared for educational purposes, not as medical advice.
Care for Electroformed Copper
Copper can develop a greenish patina (verdigris) over time or with prolonged contact with sweaty skin. To slow this: avoid contact with water, perfume, and creams; store in a sealed bag. If verdigris appears, remove with a soft damp cloth and dry thoroughly immediately. Complete guide: jewelry care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the aquamarine in this piece genuine?
Yes. It is natural aquamarine with no detectable treatment — beryl with blue-green coloration due to traces of ferrous iron. Declaration based on lapidary observation; the piece does not include formal gemological certification.
Can copper stain the skin?
It can leave a faint greenish mark with prolonged contact with sweat. It is not harmful or allergenic for most people; it can be removed with soap and water. If you have known copper sensitivity, please consult before purchasing.
How should the piece be cared for long-term?
Store away from moisture and chemicals. Clean with a dry cloth. The copper's patina can be maintained or slowed depending on use and care. See the complete guide in jewelry care.
See also: all pendants · artisan outlet.
