Butterfly-shaped pendant, made by copper electroforming, with a teardrop aquamarine stone and an amethyst accent on the figure's body. The setting grows directly onto the stone during the electrolytic process — no mold, no solder, no two pieces alike.
Item details
| Main mineral |
Aquamarine (Beryl — Be₃Al₂Si₆O₁₈) |
| Accent mineral |
Amethyst (Quartz — SiO₂) |
| Manufacturing technique |
Copper electroforming |
| Item 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 |
Unique piece |
This specific piece
The aquamarine displays a soft blue-green with silky veils inside — faint inclusions that add depth without compromising the stone's partial transparency. The color is uniform and clean, without flashes or special optical effects: its beauty lies in texture and tone, that of beryl in its natural state.
The amethyst accent on the butterfly's body is a warm violet tone that contrasts with the blue-green of the aquamarine. The copper wings retain the fine reliefs of the electrodeposition process — organic surfaces that no cast piece can reproduce.
The electroforming process
Electroforming deposits copper onto a stone submerged in a copper sulfate bath under controlled electric 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 mass-produced.
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 the water gems and associated with sea voyages; in Rome, seals for navigators were carved from 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 of 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: care of your jewelry.
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 sensitivity to copper, consult before purchasing.
How is the piece cared for long-term?
Store away from moisture and chemicals. Clean with a dry cloth. The copper patina can be maintained or slowed down depending on use and care. See complete guide at care of your jewelry.
See also: all pendants · artisan outlet.
