Copper electroformed butterfly pendant with an oval labradorite in the center, of the variety with warm labradorite: the flash goes from aquamarine green to golden-orange depending on the angle of the light. Piece dimensions: 38×23 mm. Gold-plated steel chain, 45 cm.
Piece details
| Mineral |
Labradorite (plagioclase feldspar) |
| Metal |
Electroformed copper with warm patina |
| Piece dimensions |
38×23 mm |
| Chain |
Gold-plated steel, 45 cm |
| Technique |
Handmade copper electroforming |
| Mineral hardness |
6–6.5 Mohs |
| Treatment |
Untreated |
| Piece type |
Unique piece — Ecos del Taller collection |
Technique: copper electroforming
Electroforming deposits copper using electric current on non-conductive surfaces, creating organic settings that adapt to each stone with a precision impossible to replicate by conventional methods. In this butterfly, the copper grew around the labradorite, fitting the oval cabochon into the body of the figure without a separately added setting. The wings with embossed veins are the direct imprint of the galvanic process.
This particular piece
The labradorite shows a warm spectrum labradorite: the dominant flash is aquamarine-green with golden-orange reflections visible from oblique angles. This warm spectrum occurs in smaller proportions than the standard blue and provides a visual warmth that complements the coppery tone of the wings.
The copper wings have a vivid texture with marked veining and a patina that darkens the crevices, creating a contrast between the metallic relief and the changing luminosity of the mineral. The gold-plated chain —instead of a leather cord— reinforces the overall warm tone of the piece.
Labradorite in lapidary tradition
Discovered in the Labrador Peninsula (Canada) in the 18th century, labradorite fascinated European naturalists for its ability to convert light into a visible spectrum. The Inuit called it "fire trapped in rock" and linked it to the aurora borealis. In 19th-century jewelry, it became one of the great optical phenomenon stones along with adularia and opal. Its labradorite —light interference in internal layers— is today one of the most sought-after effects in contemporary mineral jewelry (intuition and change).
The symbolic properties attributed to minerals belong to cultural and historical traditions. They are shared for educational purposes, not as medical advice.
Frequently asked questions
Does the flash change with the angle?
Yes. Labradorite is optical interference in the internal layers of the mineral: the visible color changes with the rotation of the piece. In this labradorite, the dominant flash is green-golden; orange appears from oblique angles.
Is the labradorite treated?
No detectable treatment. Statement based on lapidary observation; the piece does not include formal gemological certification.
What is the Ecos del Taller collection?
Original designer pieces from the Anima Mundi workshop not integrated into the main collections. Same artisanal quality, adjusted price because they are archive pieces. No structural defects.
See also: all pendants · outlet collection
