L’OBSIDIENNE

Obsidian is a volcanic rock.

Esprit Joaillerie is focusing on a volcanic rock: obsidian.

First of all, this molten material is born from the earth’s fire and spreads out across the natural world. This molten rock is fascinating.

Formed from silica-rich lava, obsidian does not crystallise. This is because the crystallisation process is, as it were, halted by the temperature difference. The result is a shiny, sharp stone – a volcanic glass.

It has a beautiful velvety black colour, though depending on its composition, it can sometimes take on shades such as brown, green and, more rarely, blue, red and even yellow.

It is important to note that obsidian has been widely used since the Stone Age. Like flint, it can be sharp, and in the absence of metallic materials, this stone is of great importance
(particularly for hunting and agriculture).

Later, it was used by pre-Columbian civilisations. Whilst still serving as tools, it also became a decorative object, such as mirrors. However, for the Maya, this energy of the earth had another purpose. Consequently, their use of it was more sophisticated; this sacred stone was used to make sacrificial knives.

Medieval traditions attributed therapeutic and supernatural powers to obsidian. Obsidian balls were believed to be able to predict the future.

Even today, obsidian continues to captivate people, as this natural glass is a source of inspiration for creativity.

For example, it is this link between obsidian and humankind that is perpetuated by
Michel der Agobian through Cub-ar. To this end, he offers exquisite objects made from obsidian from Mount Ararat, crafted by a number of designers.

For Jean-Baptiste Sibertin-Blanc, a designer, obsidian has a very contemporary feel. In 2010, he was the artistic director of the exhibition An Obsidian Gaze, who brings together 12 designers to create exceptional pieces.

This dark matter continues to inspire John the Baptist to offer items made entirely from obsidian, such as these vases, this glass or this pendant light.

The jeweller Thierry Vendome uses obsidian to create unique pieces of jewellery. He loves this stone for the wealth of forms it inspires. Because «its fluidity takes on the imprint of the nature that surrounds it».
Each of her creations is created by examining her motifs, her imperfections, or even her brilliance.

To put it simply, obsidian has the power of nature, the power that inspires creative spirit.
This stone may make you look at volcanic lava in a different way.

Thierry Vendome
http://www.thierryvendome.com

Studio JBSB
http://www.jbsb.eu

Cub-Ar Company
http://cub-ar.com/fr/cub-ar

My thanks to Terre et Volcans
http://terreetvolcans.free.fr

For Amaury.