Fordite Pair of cabochons

This striking pair of handmade Fordite earring cabochons is a rare and exciting material for jewellery makers and collectors looking for something truly unique. Fordite, also known as Detroit agate or motor agate, is a vintage material created unintentionally in car factories between the 1940s and 1970s. It formed as layers of colourful enamel overspray built up and cured repeatedly in the paint bays where cars were hand-sprayed. These layers eventually hardened into vibrant, multi-coloured deposits that could be cut and polished like gemstones. Because modern car manufacturing now uses more efficient robotic paint systems, this material is no longer produced, making vintage Fordite increasingly scarce and desirable.

This particular pair of cabochons has been cut and polished by hand to showcase the beautiful banding, colour variation, and glossy finish that makes Fordite so visually appealing. The swirling patterns and bold colours in this pair include layers of red, silver, blue, black, and white, creating a dynamic and eye-catching look that’s perfect for statement earrings. Each stone has been shaped with care to ensure a symmetrical match, making them ideal for jewellers who want to create a unique, balanced design with a strong visual impact.

Not only are these Fordite cabochons beautiful, but they also carry a rich history. They represent a fascinating intersection of art, industry, and sustainability. Once considered factory waste, Fordite is now recognised as a valuable material with a story to tell. Using Fordite in your jewellery designs is a great way to embrace ethical practices by repurposing a recycled material that’s no longer being made. Every piece is different, meaning no two sets of cabochons are ever the same. This ensures your finished jewellery will be a one-off, whether it’s for a client, a gift, or your own collection.

These cabochons are suited for a variety of settings and styles—from classic silver bezel settings to contemporary or mixed-media designs. They are perfect for jewellers who want to work with something rare and meaningful, as well as for customers looking to own a wearable piece of automotive history. As with all Fordite, these stones should be treated with care. Although hardened through the baking process, Fordite is softer than traditional gemstones and should be protected from scratches and harsh chemicals. We recommend gentle cleaning with a soft cloth and storing them separately from harder stones to preserve their polished surface.

Each Fordite cabochon we offer at Designer Cabochons is hand-selected, cut, and polished in-house to highlight the best characteristics of the material. We focus on quality, precision, and visual impact to ensure every piece we sell is ready for high-end jewellery design. This pair is one-of-a-kind and will not be duplicated—once sold, it’s gone forever.

If you're looking to create jewellery that tells a story, stands out, and aligns with sustainable values, this rare pair of handmade Fordite cabochons is a perfect choice. Add them to your collection today and give your next jewellery piece a bold, colourful, and meaningful centrepiece. We ship worldwide from the UK and offer a wide range of rare cabochons for jewellers, collectors, and lapidary enthusiasts.