Collection: Fordite

Fordite, also known as "Detroit Agate," is a unique material formed from layers of automotive paint that accumulated in the production booths of car factories. Over time, these layers were baked and hardened, creating a colorful, layered material often used in jewelry. Fordite originates from automotive manufacturing plants, particularly those in Detroit, where excess paint from the spray booths collected and was eventually discarded. This paint was scraped off and over time, the layers were polished and cut into cabochons and other shapes for use in jewelry. This means it can be scratched relatively easily and should be handled with care to maintain its appearance. Due to its unique origins and vibrant colors, it's valued more for its aesthetic appeal than its durability.  Fordite is relatively soft compared to natural gemstones, with a hardness typically around 2.5 to 3 on the Mohs scale.