Fordite – The Gemstone That's Not Quite a Stone
In the grimy auto plants of motor companies you may find brightly colored slabs of stone. Sometimes they have a dazzling array of colors. In other cases, the slab is a solid color with a pearly sheen. But what is Fordite? As the title may hint at, it isn’t a stone in the literal sense but is treated as a gemstone nonetheless. Fordite is also known as Detroit agate, or, less commonly, Motor City agate. Fordite is the most common name because, as the legend goes, that's where it began.
Fordite is actually hardened paint. Before automation and widespread use of powder coating, painting cars was done by hand. Excess paint would accumulate and later be scraped or recycled. Any excess that wasn’t reused hardened over time. Thus, Fordite was born. People have been collecting Fordite for decades for its beauty and novel origins. But, if you think this stone is weird, you might find this blog interesting.
This is "Fordite"
So, just how much paint is needed to make some of these beauties? Well, according to the GIA, it could take as much as almost 1000 layers to create a piece that is a whopping...one inch long. Yeah, that's a lot of paint. Due to the nature of the material, those who cut and work with it are encouraged to wear the proper gear. If you're curious about what goes into that kind of safety, check out our blog on the subject! You might wonder, "is Fordite toxic?" Not necessarily. Normal contact isn't generally considered harmful, but do not ingest or cut it without proper gear, as the dust can be harmful.
It's unlikely that we will see anything quite like fordite for some time. Why? The reason is that companies have gotten better about their paint waste disposal. These days, that kind of process is automated and leaves little to scrape up for jewelry. Because of that, we are left with what we have. Of course, someone could create their own enamel-based paint jewelry, but it won't be the same. We could see "real" Fordite and "manmade" Fordite. The modern stuff just won't have that vintage vibe...
Corvettite?
What is Corvettite? Is that another kind of "Fordite?" What's up with the term Detroit agate? This is a big naming thing. As Fordite grew in popularity, people started to become more and more interested as to where the source was. You can kind of think of it like any other stone, where people want to know where that stoned was mined. In this case, people wanted to know which company it came from. People who loved cars and loved gemstones thought this was pretty cool, so finding out which piece of Fordite came from which car became kind of fun.
This is "Corvettite"
However, this started to create a few problems with naming, as not every piece of Fordite was actually from a Ford. Some came from Chevrolet, and some of the most prized came from Corvettes. Then, some people liked Chrysler, wanting to pitch Chryslerites. The story goes on from there.
To have a more general or neutral name, some people proposed Detroit agate. Some, however, thought this wasn't an appropriate name, as it could potentially mislead people into thinking it was real agate from Detroit, when that wasn't the case at all. The same applied to Motor City agate. The gemstone community s no stranger to misnomers, and many have been dedicated to ensuring that only proper or accurate names are used in recent times. Thus, Detroit agate lost to Fordite in the long run.
What is Fordite and How Does it Relate to Automotive History and Horological Design?
Fordite, often referred to as "Detroit agate" or "motor agate," is a captivating material with roots deeply entrenched in automotive history. This unique substance is not a natural gemstone but rather a byproduct of bygone eras in the automotive industry.
The Birth of Fordite
During the 1970s to 1990s, when spray paint was the standard for car manufacturing, layers upon layers of paint overspray accumulated in the paint booths at car factories. As vehicles moved through the paint bays, each layer gradually built upon the previous, resulting in stunning, colorful strata. Over time, this hardened excess paint became a durable and visually striking material—Fordite.
A Connection to Automotive Legacy
Fordite not only embodies the vibrant colors of its origin but also tells the story of the golden age of automobile manufacturing, especially in Detroit, known as the heart of America’s automotive industry. These layers reflect the changing hues that defined an era, painting a vivid picture of the past with every swirl and stripe.
Fordite in Horological Design
In the world of horology, Fordite has found a second life. Artisans transform this storied material into exquisite timepieces. By incorporating Fordite into watch dials or bezels, designers highlight its unique patterns, creating one-of-a-kind watches that serve as a testament to both craftsmanship and the enduring legacy of the auto industry. Each piece is a conversation starter, seamlessly merging the worlds of automotive nostalgia and sophisticated design.
Has Fordite Had a Resurgence in Popularity?
Fordite, also known as Detroit agate, has recently captured the attention of urban explorers and creative artisans alike, leading to a renewed interest in this unique material. These individuals are drawn to Fordite for its vibrant layers and connection to automotive history, using it to craft distinctive jewelry and art pieces. The allure of turning industrial leftovers into eye-catching designs has fueled this revival, appealing to those who appreciate upcycling and sustainability. As a result, Fordite has found a niche among collectors and artisans eager to own a piece of automotive history transformed into wearable art.
What Are the Colors Found in Fordite? Are The Fordite Colors Still Used?
Certain colors found in Fordite, also known as "Detroit Agate," aren't commonly used on vehicles today due to shifts in automotive design trends, advancements in paint technology, and changes in environmental regulations.
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Evolving Aesthetic Trends: The automotive industry constantly adapts to changing consumer preferences. Colors popular in the past, such as vibrant metallics or bold neons, may no longer align with current tastes, which favor more subdued or classic palettes.
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Technological Advancements: Modern paint technologies offer a wider range of durable and eco-friendly options. This has led manufacturers to choose new colors that better withstand the elements and maintain their luster over time.
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Environmental Regulations: Stricter environmental laws have prompted changes in the production of automotive paints. Ingredients that were once used to create certain vivid colors are now regulated or even banned, pushing manufacturers to develop alternative hues that comply with these regulations.
Together, these factors have led to a shift away from some of the striking colors that were once a fixture on American roads, now preserved in the layered beauty of Fordite.
How Has Fordite Influenced Popular Culture?
Understanding Fordite-Inspired Nail Polish: Composition and Uses
Fordite-inspired nail polish is a unique blend designed to mimic the vibrant and layered appearance of Fordite, also known as Detroit's agate. The composition features a mix of black, white, and rainbow matte glitter suspended in a clear base. This combination creates a stunning, multi-dimensional effect reminiscent of the artistic beauty found in Fordite.
How to Use Fordite-Inspired Nail Polish
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Layering Effect: Apply the glitter polish over other colors to achieve diverse and personalized styles. The clear base with glitter is perfect for topping off any base color, allowing the underneath shade to shine through with added sparkle.
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Recommended Pairings: For an eye-catching and dynamic look, use this glitter topper over deep or dark base polishes. Combining it with something like a holographic charcoal black can yield an especially striking effect, catching light from different angles for a dramatic finish.
The versatility in its application makes this polish a must-have in any nail art enthusiast's collection, ideal for creating both subtle glimmers and bold statements.
How to Creatively Use Fordite Nail Polish in Personal Styling
Fordite nail polish isn't just your average glitter—we're talking vibrant black, white, and rainbow matte pieces suspended in a versatile clear base. It's the kind of glitter that demands attention and sparks creativity in personal styling. Here’s how you can make this standout nail polish work for any look:
Layering for Maximum Effect
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Over Solid Colors: Take your favorite solid shades and add a layer of Fordite for an instant upgrade. Whether it's a classic red or a chic nude, the glitter adds depth and a touch of sparkle that takes your nails from simple to spectacular.
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Holographic Highlights: Pair it with a holographic nail polish like Essie's "Holo at Me." The combination of glitter and holographic effects creates a dynamic duo that catches the light beautifully.
Mix and Match
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Accent Nails: Choose one or two nails per hand to coat with Fordite while painting the rest in a complementary solid or pastel. This creates a sophisticated, balanced look.
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French Tip Twist: Instead of traditional white tips, apply the glitter to the tips for a modern twist on a classic French manicure.
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Geometric Designs: Use tape to create geometric patterns on your nails. Apply Fordite polish in the sections you've masked off for a bold, artistic design.
Seasonal Styling Tips
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Spring/Summer: Use it over lighter shades like mint or peach for a fun, energetic vibe ideal for warm weather.
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Autumn/Winter: Layer it over deeper shades like burgundy or emerald for a rich, cozy look that's perfect for the colder months.
The possibilities with Fordite nail polish are endless, allowing you to customize your nails to reflect your personal style and the current season. Whether you're looking for subtle glamour or bold statements, it’s the perfect tool for creative expression.
The Wrap Up
Fordite is pretty rare, but if you can see it up close, you may easily find that it's exceptionally beautiful for what it is! We are glad to be able to appreciate a unique and fascinating part of not just car history, but jewelry history, too. The means with which one can acquire Fordite as they could decades ago, however, is no longer possible. So the Fordite on the market is about the limit of the supply unless some more is found. Looking where to buy Fordite? Check out store regularly, as we are always adding new goodies!
References
GEMS & GEMOLOGY, Vol. 52, No. 1, pp. 87-88
https://www.gia.edu/gems-gemology/spring-2016-gemnews-fordite-corvette-assembly-plant
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