One of the methods we use most at Lazuli is electroforming, which allows us to form metal onto non-metallic objects, like gemstones or seashells, without concealing their natural shape. To start, we apply a conductive paint that, when placed in a chemical bath charged with an electric current, encourages copper to grow around where the paint is applied.

The process is a slow one, happening over a handful of days, and not always predictable. We monitor it along the way, touching up the paint and adjusting the bath’s chemical levels to ensure the copper is accumulating onto the piece evenly. The copper thickens until the piece is firmly held and enveloped, and strong enough to be worn. We are essentially growing our own bezel! Once electroformed, the piece goes through several steps of hand-smoothing and polishing, and then the copper is electroplated with a thick layer of 14k gold.

We love electroforming because it results in an organic, “unearthed” finish, like liquid metal is flowing over each stone or shell. It’s another way of ensuring each piece is unique, as the metal’s shape, layers and texture can vary from stone to stone.