P'tites Pépites

P'tite Pépite

Fire decides the form.

Each P'tite Pépite begins as molten silver or gold; as the flame heats the metal, the silver or gold begins to glow bright orange and then sucks into itself forming a sphere.  At the moment the metal whirls spherical and a shiny mirror appears on the top, a small stone (only diamonds, rubies, and sapphires withstand the heat) is pushed into the button of molten metal. It instantly cools the metal causing it to lose its perfect smooth, roundness.  In this split second the metal is shaped by gravity, and cooled into a unique form not to be replicated. No mold. No template. Only the organic intelligence of metal under an intense flame accepting a precious stone during its most vulnerable moment. 

Because of her love of emeralds, Valerie sets a Colombian emerald with the same intention: one flash of living green inside a raw silver or gold pépite.  Setting is required because emeralds cannot withstand the heat of the molten process. 

A defiant droplet from the earth, small enough to rest against the collarbone, solid enough to provide comfort.

Marks of the process remain visible. Traces of heat, gravity, and touch. Each piece holds its own small history.

Material: .975 sterling silver (14kt or 18kt gold made-to-order)

Stones: sapphire, ruby, or Colombian emerald 

Size: approximately 7 to 10 mm

Process: fire-formed, no molds, no repetition

Chain: Not included. Get in touch to learn about chain options.