Consider two people, drawn together by an undeniable attraction. Yesterday they were strangers; today they are on a unique journey – a journey that will determine who they become together. As two worlds collide, love can happen in an instant. But, the foundation for a lifelong relationship takes much longer to solidify.
The lovers’ journey – from initial meeting to marriage and beyond – is an apt metaphor for the authentic Gibeon meteorite used in our rings. This rare type of meteorite is composed of metals which were formed in a super-heated state and cooled over the course of 4 billion years. This slow cooling, or solidification, settled the molecules in a crystalline structure, similar to what you’d see in a diamond or gemstone. Not only does this rare phenomenon not occur naturally on Earth, but it’s also what gives the metal its distinctive, patterned look and priceless meaning.
Wear a meteorite ring and forever remember that what you and your loved one become over time is so much more than the attraction that initially brought you together.
Gibeon meteorite was formed in space four billion years ago. It exploded upon entering Earth’s atmosphere, landing in the desert of Namibia, Africa in scattered pieces over an area 171 miles long and 62 miles wide.
The Namibian government banned the export of Gibeon meteorite, as any newly discovered pieces are automatically protected as national monuments. This means that any meteorite specimens in circulation are of increasing value and incredibly limited supply. As is true in general for Lashbrook, we source our materials as ethically as possible and our meteorite comes from that increasingly limited supply.
The origin and rarity of each meteorite ring makes it a distinctive piece of art.
Gibeon meteorite features a distinct crystalline structure on its surface, a pattern found only in diamonds and gemstones. This visible crystal structure, or Widmanstätten pattern, was caused by extremely slow cooling of the material in space.
The Widmanstätten pattern will vary slightly between pieces, as will the presence of inclusions. Inclusions are dark spots or tiny holes on the surface of the meteorite that are often traces of metals that, in some cases, do not occur naturally on earth. These inclusions are an important clue to the meteorite’s origin and are identifiers of its authenticity.
The acid etching of the meteorite is the last step in the production of the ring. It is here where natural characteristics show themselves.
Zirconium is an element on the periodic table. It has incredible chemical resistance and does not readily react with solvents, acids, bases or other common chemicals. Such unique characteristics make zirconium a great material to use in exotic applications. Traditionally, it used as an alloy in nuclear reactors, submarines, and incendiary munitions.
Our zirconium rings are made using this same high-tech Zirconium alloy, which is comprised primarily of zirconium with a few trace elements. These unique combinations of metals make zirconium rings a perfect option for those with nickel and precious metal allergies and sensitivities.
In its natural state, zirconium is a silver-grey color. It earns its stark black appearance through our proprietary heating process, in which a layer of hard black oxide grows on the metal. This black layer is much harder than raw zirconium, but it is very thin. Unlike oxidized silver and black rhodium, this layer does not rub off over time. It is also more durable than black-coated rings, such as black titanium and black tungsten.
Zirconium is rated as an 8.5 on the Mohs Scale of Hardness.
Zirconium rings are hypoallergenic, lightweight, and comfortable. Zirconium rings should be treated as fine jewelry, and should be removed during harsh activities to avoid scratching.
Cleaning: Zirconium rings need no special care. These rings can be cleaned with regular jewelry cleaner, steam, or ultrasonic