€ 155
Still questions? Contact us
Theobromine necklace | 18K gold vermeil
In 1841 Alexander Voskresensky isolated a bitter alkaloid from cacao beans and named it theobromine, after Theobroma cacao, "food of the gods" in Greek. Half a century later the molecule was the active ingredient in Diuretin, one of the first clinically used vasodilators. Worn here as a 24 mm 18K gold vermeil pendant.
The Chemistry of Theobromine
Theobromine is 3,7-dimethylxanthine, structurally one methyl group away from caffeine (1,3,7-trimethylxanthine). The molecule was first isolated from cacao beans by the Russian chemist Alexander Voskresensky in 1841 and named for Theobroma cacao, the genus name meaning "food of the gods" in Greek. Pharmacologically theobromine antagonises adenosine A1 and A2 receptors, producing a mild stimulant effect, and inhibits phosphodiesterases, which raises intracellular cAMP and contributes to smooth muscle relaxation, vasodilation, and a mild diuretic action. Theobromine sodium salicylate, marketed as Diuretin in the late 1800s, was one of the first clinically used vasodilators. The molecule is famously toxic to dogs because canine metabolism clears it with a half-life of around seventeen hours, against around seven hours in humans, allowing tissue concentrations to reach toxic levels from doses humans tolerate easily.
Worn By
- chemistry graduates whose thesis touched alkaloid pharmacology or natural-product chemistry
- chocolate scientists and food-technology researchers at career milestones
- veterinary toxicologists who handle chocolate-poisoning cases as a regular part of small-animal practice
- retiring pharmacology educators with a soft spot for the methylxanthine class
Most often given on a chemistry graduation, on a milestone in food-science research, or as a pharmacology-of-everyday-life occasion gift. The gold reads as recognition for the working chemist or scientist who finds the chocolate connection charming rather than novel.
Explore Related Molecules Jewelry
- Theobromine necklace | silver
- Caffeine necklace | gold vermeil
- Caffeine necklace | silver
- Ethanol necklace | gold vermeil
- Cortisol necklace | gold vermeil
FAQ
Why pick the gold theobromine over the silver?
Gold and silver mark different occasions. The gold theobromine reads as recognition: a chemistry or food-science graduation, a milestone in alkaloid pharmacology research, or a pharmacology-of-everyday-life gift for a chemist whose career has involved cacao or methylxanthines. The silver is the working-day version. Same 24 mm pendant, same chain length, same molecule. The choice marks the occasion.
Is the chocolate connection part of the appeal?
For most buyers, yes. Theobromine is the rare molecule whose name is unfamiliar to non-chemists but whose origin (chocolate) is universally recognised. The cacao link gives the pendant a culturally legible anchor that the working pharmacology does not require. Recipients who do not handle alkaloids professionally still recognise the chocolate connection and find the pendant readable, while chemists and food scientists recognise the structural and pharmacological depth behind it. The piece works for both audiences.
What size is the pendant and what chain comes with it?
18K gold vermeil over a sterling silver core, 24 mm pendant on a 45 cm gold vermeil chain (ø 1.8 mm) with a 5 cm extender. Nickel-free and hypoallergenic. Free worldwide DHL Express in 1-5 business days, with all import duties and taxes covered. 30-day “Love It or Return It” returns.
Is there a silver version?
Yes. The same theobromine pendant is available in sterling silver at the same 24 mm size and chain length. Many people who own the gold version eventually pick up the silver for daily wear.
Molecules
Delve into the hidden elegance of science with our meticulously crafted jewelry, inspired by the intricate structures of chemical molecules. Each piece serves as a tactile tribute to the building blocks of life and matter, capturing the allure of atoms and bonds in precious metals. A harmonious fusion of art and science, these creations are more than mere accessories; they're a celebration of the enigmatic beauty that underpins our universe.
Find your perfect fit: measure an Existing Ring
Finding out your ring size at home is a simple process and can help you shop for jewelry online with confidence.
Necklace length guide
