Branches with Hidden Keys! Agate

19/21 Jewelry is my personal creative collection that are one-of-a-kind pieces using an early 19th century method of collodion and bringing it to life in the 21st century - hence, “19/21.” Each piece is magical in its own way and represents all things that are lasting and beautiful.

This piece was an inspiration for several more to come. Twisted branches and little hidden keys hidden in them are magical in every way. It has a beautiful glossy sheen on the front. Sterling silver bail along with 24” silver plated chain. Hand signed on the back. 1.5” wide x 2” tall.

This is a hand crafted, one-of-a-kind 1800’s collodion process. This rare process on metal is called a tintype - on glass it is called an ambrotype and on stone (though I did not coin the phrase) I am calling it an “Agatype”. This piece of polished agate was shot directly onto the stone with my large format camera and is incredible.

These little gems are definitely labor intensive and no two are alike. If you are interested in a piece, I suggest to snatch it up before it is gone because there will never be another one like it again. The artistry of tintypes, ambrotypes and on stone can be intricate and intense. Chemicals often can react differently each and every time, therefore, giving each piece beautiful and unique attributes with perfect imperfections. Small inclusions, chemical sweeps or blemishes are a part of the charm of each piece and come individually signed.

I photograph each piece using my 10x10 Chamonix large format camera in studio and take much time and effort setting up each shot. I use an early 1900’s brass lens that enables me to capture such magical “gem” sized images. I shoot the image, develop it in my darkroom, fix and varnish every gem individually. Each one has an iridescent quality due to the embedded silver and looks curious at different angles.

Be sure to use a soft, 100% cotton cloth or microfiber to wipe and care for your jewelry and treat it kindly for years and years to come. They are beautifully exquisite and can be handed down for generations.

Each piece comes with it’s own suede pouch and cleaning cloth.