Unique Layered Concrete & Jewel Vases

Nature constantly inspires me. Concrete is my own version of rock so why not combine it with some ‘bling’?! You saw see it first here; my Unique Layered Concrete & Jewel vases.

The Other Family Jewels:

I could never get myself to get rid of the chandelier crystals. I tend to appreciate how the elders had cherished them and feel better if they can be useful. Since they are glass (newer ones are plastic and don’t work) they clean well and the wires are easily clipped and pulled out.

The Concrete Mold:

For these layered concrete vases or vessels they will need an inner container like a jar that stays in place since it will have some voids due to the layers. Plan the jar height with the outer shape mold.

To make it easier to visualize how the concrete will look I like the ‘box’ mold to be clear. Plexiglas can be expensive so I opted for some cheap ‘dollar-store’ frames as a source for the plastic. TIP; to cut the rectangles, use a straight edge and Xacto knife to keep scoring the cutting line. After multiple passes it will be able to snap at that line when forced over an edge like the table corner. No power tool needed!

To attach the pieces, (don’t forget the bottom), use some clear packing tape. The last side seam can have a fold over flap to make opening easier later on. I do not use a mold release as the concrete does not stick to plastic.

The Concrete Mix:

Yes, I am using my favourite mix again; Rapidset Cementall. It sets very quickly, so only mix small quantities at a time. I use a small sour cream container and let it sit for a minute to slightly stiffen. It should NOT be runny; something like a ‘Greek Yogurt’ consistency.

Plop some mix into the bottom of the form as this will be the base.

Press the jar lightly into the mix. Do not force it too far down to touch the bottom. I am trying to mimic the roughness of rock so there does not need to be any even shape or edges.

This method is really very rustic and unconventional. Layer some stone and ‘jewels’ between layers of concrete. How many and how thick is your choice.

It may get messy dropping the concrete. Help it along with some skewers or sticks but do not force it too much as then the layers will fill solid. Expect that some stones will adhere and some will just fall out. I love this unexpected way of designing…

Place the jewels to be able to get most affect from them. That is why I like the transparent mold. Have as many or little layers as you like. Be creative, stone, rock, whatever combination you like. I would avoid plastic as they tend not to stick to concrete.

Finishing off:

To mask the fact that it is a jar I like to keep the top flush and flat. If the surface is uneven you can smooth it with a brush.

This concrete mix cures so fast. Usually it can be unmolded in an hour! When you open the tape edges many of the stones that did not get imbedded will fall out, that is normal and will give you the voids that happen in nature.

How wonderful!?!

If the edges feel to sharp, I like to use my home-made sanding blocks – yes, made from concrete! What do you think sandpaper is???

Design: Shape and texture!

I love the rough textures and the contrast of the smooth shape!

Yes, I have a new background that I made! ‘And my favourite Liquitex metallic paints and inks.

An added Dimension:

This is optional. Myself, I can hardly ‘leave-well-enough-alone’. I like a subtle (yes, subtle) added colour or depth.

The rough areas can be darkened to mimic nature quite easily by letting the thin paint run into the crevices.

So much detail and the added surprise of diamonds – er, jewels.

Imagine these as centre pieces for a wedding… Cool! The sahpe can be waht ever you like as the geode eggs were quite similar. The taller the form will make for some added difficulty adding the layers but it’s all doable if you are stubborn.

Simple, modern and tactile. Do not leave them outside as any vessel that has freezing inside will break over a winter. Go and start to collect your jars or bottles. Think ‘inside the box’.

Maybe you will imbed your collection of see glass, or special rocks into these Layered Concrete & Jewel Vases. Even sea shells would work here. ‘You’ are making the future fossils…

Thanks for joining in my concrete addiction. But don’t stop here; there are many unique projects. Any questions about using different mixes? or some help with your first concrete project?

Good luck and stay safe!