Electroformed copper pendant with a spectacular labradorite, displaying violet, gold, and blue-green simultaneously depending on the angle of the light. Oval shape, mounted under an ornate butterfly with spiral antennae and a central embossed detail. Unique piece from the Outlet collection.
Piece Details
| Mineral |
Labradorite (plagioclase feldspar, Ca₂Al₂Si₂O₈) |
| Piece Dimensions |
Approx. 55×32 mm (including setting) |
| Stone Shape |
Oval · polished cabochon |
| Setting |
Ornate butterfly electroformed in copper |
| Finish |
Copper with natural patina and oxidized areas |
| Mineral Hardness |
6–6.5 Mohs |
| Origin |
Material purchased at lapidary wholesale market |
| Treatment |
Untreated |
| Piece Type |
Unique piece · Outlet Collection |
| Chain |
Black leather cord included |
This Specific Piece
The labradorite in this piece is polychromatic: the eye simultaneously catches deep violet, warm gold, and teal blue-green as the pendant is rotated. This combination of colors — rare even among high-quality labradorites — places it in the range of specimens that lapidaries call "spectral labradorite." Under direct light, the flash fills the entire surface of the cabochon without any dull spots.
The butterfly crowning the stone is the most ornate in the series: it includes a molded embossed body, spirally coiled antennae, and detailed wing veins. Electroforming integrates it into the support structure, not as an added ornament, but as part of the setting system.
Electroformed Copper
In electroforming, the stone acts as the core of an electrolytic process: immersed in a copper sulfate solution and connected to a low-voltage circuit, the metal is deposited onto its surface layer by layer over hours. The result is a unique setting that forms directly on the stone, impossible to reproduce with a mold. Each copper deposit records the exact texture of the mineral at that point.
Labradorite in Lapidary Tradition
Labradorite was first described in 1770 on St. Paul Island (Labrador, Canada), where the Inuit already knew it by the name Firestone because of how light behaves within it. Inuit legend tells that the aurora borealis became trapped in the coastal rocks, and a warrior freed them by striking them — but some lights remained within the stones and became labradorite.
In crystal tradition, labradorite is associated with intuition and the ability to see beyond the obvious. It is considered the stone of those who work with ideas, images, and perspectives invisible to others.
The symbolic properties attributed to minerals belong to cultural and historical traditions. They are shared for educational purposes, not as medical advice.
How to Recognize Genuine Labradorite
Genuine labradorite exhibits labradorescence — the flash of light — only at certain angles. If the flash is visible from all angles equally, the piece may be iridescent glass or plastic. Genuine labradorite has a dark gray or blue-gray base outside the flash angle; dyed glass maintains the same color in all directions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the labradorite genuine and untreated?
Yes. No detectable treatment. Statement based on lapidary observation; the piece does not include formal gemological certification. Labradorescence is a natural optical phenomenon caused by light interference between internal crystalline layers.
How do I care for electroformed copper?
Copper develops a patina over time — a natural process that adds character to the piece. To slow it down, avoid contact with water, creams, and perfumes. If verdigris (green patina) appears, clean gently with a dry cloth. Full guide: jewelry care.
Why is it in the outlet collection?
Outlet pieces are our own production with minor variations in patina or workshop marks that do not affect structural integrity. The labradorite and electroforming are in perfect condition.
Does the color flash change with light?
Yes. Under diffuse natural light (overcast day) the flash may appear duller; under direct or fluorescent light, it displays its full spectrum. The intensity of the flash is also slightly different depending on the observer's angle.
View the complete collection: Workshop Echoes · Outlet. See also: mineral pendants.
