Butterfly-shaped pendant, made using copper electroforming, with a teardrop labradorite featuring intense golden labradorescence. The flash of light emitted by this stone under direct incidence transforms the pendant into a living piece — distinct depending on the angle and light source.
Piece details
| Mineral |
Labradorite (Plagioclase — (Ca,Na)(Al,Si)₄O₈) |
| Manufacturing technique |
Copper electroforming |
| Piece dimensions |
Approx. 50 × 25 mm (butterfly + stone · ±2 mm) |
| Metal finish |
Copper with dark patina and organic reliefs |
| Optical phenomenon |
Golden-amber labradorescence (Schiller effect) |
| Stone hardness |
6–6.5 Mohs |
| Mineral origin |
Material acquired from a wholesale lapidary market |
| Treatment |
No detectable treatment |
| Type |
Unique piece |
This particular piece
The labradorescence of this stone is a golden-amber spectrum with green touches at the edges — a warm and deep flash that covers most of the teardrop's surface. It is not a pinpoint sparkle but a glow that shifts in layers when the pendant is moved.
The dark gray base of the labradorite contrasts with the patinated copper of the butterfly, creating a palette of earth tones that makes the golden flash stand out even more powerfully. The elongated teardrop shape amplifies the visual effect of the optical phenomenon.
The electroforming process
Electroforming deposits copper onto the 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 serially reproduced.
Labradorite in lapidary tradition
Labradorite gets its name from the Labrador Peninsula (Canada), where it was identified by European mineralogists in 1770 — although the Inuit people already knew and valued its optical properties long before that. It belongs to the plagioclase feldspar group and its characteristic optical phenomenon — labradorescence — is produced by the interference of light in alternating layers of different compositions within the crystal.
In crystal tradition, labradorite is associated with intuition and expanded perception — the stone of those who see beyond the obvious.
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 down: 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. Full guide: jewelry care.
Frequently asked questions
Is the golden flash natural or treated?
Labradorescence is an internal optical phenomenon — a result of the mineral's crystalline structure, not any surface treatment. No detectable treatment. Statement based on lapidary observation; no 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 a known sensitivity to copper, 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 patina can be maintained or slowed down depending on use and care. See the full guide at jewelry care.
See also: all pendants · artisan outlet.
