At Blackbird & Sage, every piece is handcrafted in Santa Fe, New Mexico, using natural gemstones and copper.

We work with electroformed copper and electroformed silver to create jewelry that's made to be worn, loved, and lived in.

Below you'll find a clear guide to how your jewelry is made and how to care for it so it stays beautiful for years.

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How Your Jewelry Is Made

Electroformed Copper

Electroforming is a slow, hands-on process. We paint a conductive layer onto a hand-shaped design, then submerge it in a copper bath where pure copper grows over the form, layer by layer, for hours. The result is an organic, one-of-a-kind piece that hugs the natural edges of each stone.

Because every piece is grown (not cast or stamped), no two are identical. You'll notice subtle variations in texture, thickness, and patina. That's the nature of handmade work.

Shop Crystal Rings   Shop Crystal Necklaces

Electroformed Silver

Our silver pieces are built the same way as our copper work, electroformed by hand around each stone. Once the copper form is complete, the piece goes through 3 to 4 separate passes in a professional silver bath, building up a substantially thicker, more durable silver layer than standard single-pass plating. The result preserves every detail of the organic, handbuilt surface while giving the piece its cool, bright finish.

Metals & Finishes

• Copper (electroformed): Develops a natural patina over time. Lacquer coating is available as an optional add-on for those who prefer to slow oxidation.
• Electroformed silver: Multi-pass silver finish for durability and brightness. Holds its color well with simple care.
• Patinas: Antiqued finishes are intentional and may deepen gently over time.
• Chains and cords: We use chains or adjustable leather cords selected to complement each piece.

Stones

We work with raw crystals, cabochons, and cut gemstones. Natural stones carry inclusions, color shifts, and internal textures. These are features we consider part of their beauty and character.

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Care Guide (Everyday Use)

The Big Five

1. Last on, first off. Put your jewelry on after lotions, perfumes, hairspray, and sunscreen.
2. Keep it dry. Remove before showering, swimming, hot tubs, workouts, or gardening.
3. Avoid chemicals. Household cleaners and chlorinated water can damage both metal and stones.
4. Store softly. Keep pieces in a dry pouch or box, away from humidity. Add a silica gel pack if you live in a damp climate.
5. Gentle cleaning only. Use a soft, dry cloth. Avoid chemical dips, ultrasonic cleaners, or abrasive polishes, especially on patinas and raw stones.

Leather Cords

Keep leather dry. If needed, wipe gently with a barely damp cloth and let air-dry. Condition sparingly with a neutral leather balm.

Stones That Need Extra Care

• Porous or soft stones (turquoise, malachite, lapis, selenite, opal, raw pyrite): Avoid water, oils, and chemical cleaners.
• Color-sensitive stones (amethyst, rose quartz): Prolonged direct sunlight can fade color. Store away from windows.

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Copper, Patina & Skin

Will copper turn my skin green?

Sometimes, yes. A harmless green tint can appear due to normal oxidation and your skin's natural pH. It washes off easily with soap and water.

If you'd prefer to slow or prevent this, a professional lacquer coating (Protectaclear) is available as an optional add-on under Studio Add-Ons at checkout. We can also apply it in-studio before shipping. Over time with regular wear, any coating will naturally wear in high-contact areas and can be reapplied as needed.

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Cuffs: Fit & Care

Electroformed copper is less pliable than plain copper sheet. For longevity, avoid repeatedly bending cuffs open and closed.

How to put on a cuff safely:

1. Turn your wrist sideways and slide the cuff over the soft spot just above your wrist bone.
2. Rotate the cuff into place.
3. Pinch very gently once for a custom fit. Avoid ongoing adjustments.

Need a visual? See our step-by-step guide: How to Put On a Cuff & Keep It Beautiful for Years

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Cleaning & Refresh

• Daily: Wipe with a soft, dry cloth (no chemicals).
• Deeper refresh (metal only): Very lightly buff non-patinated areas with a jewelry polishing cloth, avoiding stones and sealed or patinated surfaces.
• What to avoid: Chemical dips, ultrasonic cleaners, toothpaste, baking soda, and rough cloths. Note: baking soda and lemon are safe for plain copper but can damage an electroformed silver finish.

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Sizing, Resizing & Adjustments

• Rings: Electroformed rings cannot be resized without risking damage to the structure. If you're unsure of your size, contact us before ordering. We're happy to help with sizing guidance. The ring chart we use is found at www.ringsizes.co.
• Cuffs: A single, minor adjustment is fine. Repeated bending can fracture the metal over time.
• Necklaces: Chain length swaps or leather cord adjustments are often possible. Reach out and we'll let you know what's doable.

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Repairs, Re-Sealing & TLC

We stand behind our work and offer a lifetime care path:

• Complimentary assessments: Send clear photos and a note describing the issue.
• Re-sealing and patina touch-ups: Available to refresh the finish and slow oxidation.
• Stone or security checks: We can evaluate and secure settings if a piece takes a tumble.