© 2018 F.Gautier Mentions légales

Minerals :

Rock crystal – Rock crystal is a variety of clear quartz, composed of crystallized pure silica. Since Classical Times, the people of many cultures, on different continents, have used it for symbolic or medicinal purposes. Currently, Brazil and Madagascar are the principal providers of the finest qualities of rock crystal rough for upscale lapidary work.

This highly sought-after mineral holds a prominent place in the overall production of creator Frédéric Gautier. Valued for its purity and transparency, it is quite often streaked with astonishing inclusions. Some contain frostings, veils, clouds, bubbles that allow the eye to look through and wander into the infinite. Other gemstones embed various crystals such as chlorite, rutile, tourmaline, actinote, hematite, lepidocrocite, etc. These different accidents increase their value, making each one of them unique. They are a trace of time’s memory.

  • Le cristal de roche
  • Le cristal de roche
  • Le cristal de roche
  • Le cristal de roche

Colored gemstones – A broad array of colored stones, precious and semi-precious, is used to create exceptional sculptures: ruby in zoisite, sapphire, polychrome tourmaline, amethyst, citrine, sodalite, pietersite, charoite, calcedoine, jasper, labradorite, etc.). They originate from different sites around the world and present extremely varied cristallizations, tints, optical effects and motifs. According to their categories, varieties and origins, they personnalize each creation, endowing it with its own specific aura.

  • Les pierres de couleur
  • Les pierres de couleur
  • Les pierres de couleur

Metals :

The sculptures are normally crafted in bronze – brass.

Polishing – Various stages are necessary to obtain the desired result in finish, which is designed to underscore or soften the contrast between mineral and metal, from a satin polish to the high shine finish or a sanded effect.

Surface treatment and plating – Gilding, silvering, chrome or nickel-plating can be used, as well as a variety of patinas to put the final touch to the piece.

 

  • metal
  • metal
  • metal

Electrical component :

It is devised specifically for the need of each sculpture and follows the CE norms. It is composed of a low voltage LED lighting and can be with a integrated source. Each metal framing-box can be taken apart, giving access to the electrical component and allowing the replacement of a damaged part.

However, if the flexible external cable or the cord of this lighted fixture is damaged, or if any part of the electrical system becomes dysfunctional, it must be replaced exclusively by the original maker, by his maintenance service or by a person with identical qualifications, in order to avoid any risk and damage.

 

  • dispositif
  • dispositif
  • dispositif

Maintenance :

The sculptures are usually delicate and they must be handled and cleaned with great care. Rubbing or contact with the metallic parts absolutely must be avoided. The same applies to some of the mineral components (those with sharp edges or lower hardness). Shocks must also be avoided as they could crack or break the mounted stones.

The majority of sculptures can be cleaned to intensify their brightness. According to the metal box-setting and its surface finish, precautions can vary slightly. It is generally sufficient to rub the metal parts delicately with a soft and dry thin felt-cloth. Detergents must definitely be avoided as they can corrode, mark or oxidize the surface coating of the framing-box. In the case of silvered sculptures with oxidized parts that have darkened the metal, a specific silver-polish may be applied with a fine, soft felt-cloth. Sculptures that include patinas may be occasionally (not frequently) polished with a natural wax after gentle cleaning.

The stones should be wiped with lint-free cotton cloth. Narrow, firm painting-brushes may be used to reach with precision the parts that are less accessible. For an exceptional, more serious type of cleaning, and only when the minerals can be carefully unmounted, it is appropriate to wash them with a small, fine brush and lukewarm water and soap.

In case of doubt as to the condition of your sculpture, you can contact us via email: we will be happy to help you restore it to a prime condition.

 

© 2018 F.Gautier