The Story Behind the Ring

Lashbrook currently uses only authentic Gibeon Meteorite, from the West African country of Namibia. Gibeon Meteorite is found over an area 171 miles long and 62 miles wide. It is classified as a fine octahedrite, where the metal shows crystalline structure normally found only in gemstones. This visible crystalline structure, or Widmanstatten pattern, was caused by the extremely slow cooling of the material at the core of the asteroid in space. As one of the most inert of the larger Meteorites found on Earth, it is less prone to oxidation and has a better Widmanstatten pattern due to the presence of a small amount of nickel. 
For most people, the Meteorite should remain inert and rust-free during the course of normal wear. Because of this natural rust inhibition, Gibeon is one of the most popular types of Meteorite used in jewelry. With ever-increasing demand, the availability of raw material continues to decrease thus increasing its rarity and price. 

General Information

Each piece of Meteorite cut for a ring has its own unique characteristics. The lines and pattern will vary between pieces, as will the presence of random inclusions. These inclusions are typically seen as dark spots or tiny holes on the surface of the Meteorite and are often rare traces of metal that represent combinations of metals that, in some cases, do not occur naturally on Earth. It is these rare inclusions that geologists often use to identify authenticity of a Meteorite and through which they can identify its origin. Due to this natural variation in the Meteorite and because of its increasing rarity, Beifeld Jewelers urges customers to be aware that each piece of Meteorite will be slightly different from what one's predetermined expectations are. 
Lashbrook produces styles incorporating Meteorite in contemporary metals, precious metals, and combinations to the two. Meteorite can be inlaid in the center of a ring or off-center, in either a round or square band. It can be also be made with a sleeve or inlaid on the ver edge of a ring. 

Wear and Care

Despite its natural protection against rust, Meteorite is primarily composed of iron, so oxidation is always a possibility. Exposure to strong oxidizing agents such as chlorine, bleach, or salt can change the pH of the metal and increase chances of rusting. These chemicals, found in some household cleaners, pools, hot tubs, and salt water, should be avoided. 
If rust appears, clean the ring with a little baking soda (or baking soda toothpaste) and a toothbrush. The ring can also be cleaned with an ultrasonic and steamer. Be sure to rinse and dry thoroughly. Trace amounts of water can be removed by soaking in acetone (nail polish remover). When clean and dried, re-apply a layer oil to Meteorite. This will help seal the pores from water. Re-application of the oil at least every six months will provide protection for the ring. 
Years of wear could eventually case the pattern on the Meteorite to fade. Lashbrook can re-etch the Meteorite, bringing the Widmanstatten lines back to their original look and feel.