Everything About Fordite: Types & Popularity

Fordite: The Accidental Gem That Rocks Our Designer Cabochon World

Move over, diamonds. There’s a new rockstar in town—and it used to be car paint.

Yes, you read that right. At Designer Cabochons, we’re obsessed with the weird, wonderful, and wildly colorful world of Fordite—also known as Detroit agate, motor agate, or the world’s most stylish recycling accident.

So... what is Fordite, anyway?

Imagine a time when cars were hand-painted in Detroit’s legendary auto factories. Layer upon layer of enamel paint was sprayed onto vehicles—and also onto the metal racks holding them. Over time, these racks built up thick, psychedelic layers of hardened paint. Heat-cured and sanded smooth by chance, this leftover paint became harder than some actual rocks.

Eventually, someone (clearly a creative genius) realized you could cut and polish this “paint-glob fossil” into stunning, swirling cabochons that look like geological candy. Thus, Fordite was born—a happy accident that now fuels the dreams of lapidary artists and collectors alike.

Why Fordite Is the Gem We Never Knew We Needed

Fordite is:

• Vintage – These layers are mostly from cars made decades ago.

• Eco-friendly – It’s 100% upcycled industrial waste (trash to treasure!).

• Hypnotically beautiful – Think tie-dye meets geology.

• Unique – No two cabochons are ever the same.

• Conversation-starting – Because when people say, “Nice stone!” and you reply, “Thanks—it’s car paint,” jaws drop.

At Designer Cabochons, we hand-select and polish Fordite to highlight its vibrant stripes, whorls, and retro flair. Whether you’re a jewelry designer, a collector, or just really into things with amazing backstories, our Fordite cabochons are here to make your designs pop.

What Can You Do With Fordite?

• Create one-of-a-kind statement rings or pendants.

• Add a splash of color to your wire-wrapped pieces.

• Gift it to that car-lover who thinks they’ve seen it all.

• Frame it like art—because honestly, it is.

Hot Tip: Fordite Is Getting Rare

Since modern car painting methods use powder-coating and robots, no new Fordite is being made. That means what’s out there is all there is. Each Fordite cabochon is a slice of industrial history, and they're becoming harder to find.

So, whether you're designing your next standout piece or just love unusual gemstones with a story, Fordite is your new obsession. Browse our Fordite cabochons today and grab a little slice of Detroit history before it drives off into the sunset.