Materials

Why choose concrete?

A light material

Its density (once hardened) is lower than that of glass (2.2 grams/cm3 versus 2.5 grams/cm3 for glass). Concrete is 7 to 10 times lighter than gold.

A natural material

It contains only clay, limestone, sand, gravel. And the addition of a tenth of a volume of water allows the solidification reaction of the components of the concrete.

A material that is pleasant to the touch

Whether it is smooth or well sanded so as to reveal its granularity, its texture is soft and pleasant to caress.

An interesting material for working on contrasts

Concrete speaks to me and inspires me. Its mineral and neutral texture blends harmoniously with decorative elements that I choose carefully, seeking to create effects of contrast between materials and colors.

A material that is both timeless and modern

Concrete has existed since antiquity. Material of choice for increasingly daring constructions, it embodies modernity in architecture. That’s why I like to say that my jewelry is timelessly modern.

A light material

Its density (once hardened) is lower than that of glass (2.2 grams/cm3 versus 2.5 grams/cm3 for glass). Concrete is 7 to 10 times lighter than gold.

A natural material

It contains only clay, limestone, sand, gravel. And the addition of a tenth of a volume of water allows the solidification reaction of the components of the concrete.

A material that is pleasant to the touch

Whether it is smooth or well sanded so as to reveal its granularity, its texture is soft and pleasant to caress.

An interesting material for working on contrasts

Concrete speaks to me and inspires me. Its mineral and neutral texture blends harmoniously with decorative elements that I choose carefully, seeking to create effects of contrast between materials and colors.

A material that is both timeless and modern

Concrete has existed since antiquity. Material of choice for increasingly daring constructions, it embodies modernity in architecture. That’s why I like to say that my jewelry is timelessly modern.

The chains

They are made of precious metals: silver or gold-filled.

The gold-filled finish in 14 carat gold is a treatment widely used in the United States. The weight of gold corresponds to 1/20 of the total weight of the product, approximately 50 to 100 times more than in a gold-plated product. Much more resistant than a classic gold plated, a gold-filled product will oxidize much less quickly.

They comply with the European REACH standard in force concerning the composition and content of nickel, lead and cadmium and the release of nickel.

Silver and gold-filled chains for concrete jewelry Icy Mouse

Trade secrets

After mixing the concrete powder with water, I delicately place the paste either in silicone molds that I make myself, for necklaces and earrings, or directly on the supports of the rings. The concrete takes 24 hours to harden.

Once unmoulded, the pendant or earring is sanded (or not, it depends on the desired effect), treated with a waterproofing hardener and the part in contact with the skin is covered with a neutral varnish.

Definitely unique pieces

Depending on the room temperature, the amount of water and other parameters, the final texture of the concrete changes slightly. The presence of small air bubbles during solidification also brings a particular touch to each jewel. Each piece made from the same model is therefore totally unique!

sanding an Icy Mouse concrete jewel
24k gold leaf work concrete jewelry Icy Mouse

Origin of materials

Le béton, le silicone pour les moules, les chaînes et les apprêts, les feuilles d’or, sont presque tous fabriqués en Europe. Je fais ce choix afin de limiter l’empreinte carbone de mes créations.

 

 

 

Maintenance tips

Strong but breakable

You must therefore avoid hitting it or dropping it.

Water does not mark

If the concrete is in contact with water, it will dry without leaving traces

Avoid the dives

This is a risk for fittings (rings, hooks) and chains.

Avoid perfumes and lotions

To slow the oxidation of primers and avoid darkening the concrete.

Storage of jewelry

In a fabric pouch or in a closed box.

Restore shine to primers

Rub them gently with a soft cloth.

Strong but breakable

You must therefore avoid hitting it or dropping it.

Water does not mark

If the concrete is in contact with water, it will dry without leaving traces

Avoid the dives

This is a risk for fittings (rings, hooks) and chains.

Avoid perfumes and lotions

To slow the oxidation of primers and avoid darkening the concrete.

Storage of jewelry

In a fabric pouch or in a closed box.

Restore shine to primers

Rub them gently with a soft cloth.

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