Real Leaves with Raw Fluorite Electroformed Copper Statement Necklace

This gorgeous necklace consists of real leaves electroformed in copper with pieces of raw fluorite from the Utah desert melded in. The pendant is 2.5 inches high and 1.75 inches wide. It comes on a dainty copper chain that is 20 inches long plus a 2-inch extender. The electroforming process takes several days to complete, starting with carefully sealing the leaves in three coats of lacquer. A conductive paint was added, then the piece went into a copper solution where electricity slowly encouraged copper to plate onto the leaves over the course of many hours. Once partially plated, I removed the leaves and painstakingly added every crystal by hand, securing them with an epoxy clay that hardened for 24 hours. More conductive paint was added and the piece went back into the electroforming solution for several more hours to make copper "grow" over the clay and fully set the stones. Finally, a patina was added to create an antique look, then highlights were polished out and the copper was sealed for protection. Although sealed, copper shouldn't be submersed in or exposed to water or harsh elements. If the copper rests against skin, skin can sometimes turn green when there is moisture present - this is normal and will go away once the copper is no longer present. Note that I haven't had this happen with necklaces myself, only rings since hands are much more moist. Copper can continue to patina, aging naturally over time. Treat your new statement necklace with care and it will become a lasting heirloom. All purchases are sent in a gift bag.