Electroformed and Patinated Milky Quartz Crystal

Description

Electroforming is a versatile but difficult process that is sometimes more science than art and other times more art than science! It’s a lengthy process, taking anything from several hours to several days depending on the size and complexity of the piece.

This interesting piece was hand crafted using a milky quartz crystal and copper, it was electroformed in several stages and finally given a patina of copper sulphide to create an aged, bronzed appearance like it’s been salvaged from an ancient shipwreck. This process has imparted a real patina, it is not an artificial colourant/pigment. Because the colours created by the patina are not pigments and are a result of interference patterns created by the reflected light, changing the thickness of the patina changes the colours shown, so varnish or protective lacquer cannot be used as it would destroy the colour effect. We have treated the patina with micro-crystalline Renaissance Wax which we found gives the best protection without affecting the colours and can be re-applied if needed.

Overtime the copper and it’s patina will change, this beautiful property of copper means that your piece will take on individual characteristics, telling its own story of how it has been used.

This milky quartz crystal has been naturally worn by the sand and sea, it was found by us on a walk around our local beach in Cornwall.

Whether you decided to buy an item from us today or not we really appreciate the time you have taken to visit our shop and hope you come back soon, and perhaps recommend a friend or two.

Love And Attention Tips For The Care Of Your Copper Piece

To keep your copper piece looking its best we advise the following tips for its care:

Cleaning:

We do not varnish our copper pieces but use Renaissance Micro-Crystalline Wax Polish which is lightly applied over the surface then gently buffed with a smooth lint-free cloth or brush. To clean away any dust or dirt on your piece wipe gently using a dry, soft, lint-free cloth, avoid using abrasive materials as these can scratch and tarnish the piece.

Very rarely a deeper clean may be required, for this use a solution of mild soap and warm water and gently brush or wipe the piece with a soft brush or cloth, then pat dry. Avoid excess moisture and rubbing as this may lead to tarnishing.

The piece can be re-waxed when thoroughly dry if necessary and we recommend Renaissance Micro-Crystalline Wax Polish.

Handling:

Avoid bending or twisting the copper piece as this may result in breakage or loss of shape.

Avoid exposure to chemicals such as perfumes and harsh household cleaners.

Avoid exposure to excessive moisture – remove the piece when bathing/showering or swimming for example.

Storage:

Prolonged exposure to sunlight and air can cause the patina to fade and tarnish, to avoid this store your piece in a cool, dry, shaded place when not in use.