Designing the Future

from the Building blocks of Reality

Neck Gaiter β-Carotene
CHF 25.00

Biochemistry and Scientific Description

β-Carotene is one of the most abundant pigments in nature. Responsible for the vibrant orange colour of carrots, pumpkins and many autumn leaves, it is also the precursor of vitamin A, making it essential for vision, immune function and normal cellular development. Its intense orange colour originates from an extended π-conjugated molecular structure, which absorbs blue-violet wavelengths of visible light (≈ 450–480 nm), while reflecting their complementary colour: orange. β-Carotene (C₄₀H₅₆) belongs to the carotenoid family and is composed of a highly conjugated π-electron system responsible for its optical properties. During crystallization, molecular self-assembly produces complex hierarchical microstructures that become visible under polarized light.

The design of this winter neck gaiter is created directly from genuine crystals of pure β-carotene, observed at approximately 100× magnification under polarized light microscopy.

Product Features

  • Premium multifunctional winter neck gaiter

  • Soft polar fleece fabric (90% polyester / 10% elastane, 260 g/m²)

  • Adjustable elastic drawcord for a personalized fit

  • Wear as a neck warmer or hood

  • Stretch fabric for enhanced comfort and freedom of movement

  • White inner lining for optimal colour reproduction

  • Size tolerance: ±1.3 cm

Care Instructions

  • Machine wash at 40°C maximum

  • Tumble dry on low heat

  • Do not iron

Anthracene Desk Mat
CHF 27.00

Description

Transform your workspace with genuine microscopic anthracene crystals captured under fluorescence microscopy. Formed from one of the most iconic aromatic molecules in organic chemistry, these electric-blue crystalline structures reveal the hidden geometry of matter. Anthracene is a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon composed of three fused benzene rings. Its extended π-conjugated system gives rise to remarkable optical properties, making it a classic molecule in photochemistry, fluorescence research, and materials science. Under the microscope, its crystals assemble into bold geometric architectures that appear futuristic and gives a techno gaming vibe. Printed in high definition on a premium desk mat, this artwork transforms a scientific observation into a functional object for everyday life. Whether you're working, studying, designing, coding, or writing, it brings a subtle sense of depth, science, and curiosity to your workspace, a daily reminder that extraordinary beauty already exists within the molecular world.

Product Features

  • Premium neoprene surface for smooth mouse movement and lasting durability

  • Non-slip rubber backing to keep the mat securely in place

  • Reinforced stitched edges for enhanced longevity

  • High-definition print preserving the intricate crystalline details and vibrant electric-blue colors

  • Available in three sizes to suit compact desks or full workstations

Care Instructions

  • Clean gently with warm water and mild soap using a soft cloth.

  • Do not soak the entire desk mat.

  • For stubborn stains, use a soft-bristled brush and allow to air dry.

Neck Gaiter: Caffeine
CHF 25.00

Scientific Description

Caffeine (C₈H₁₀N₄O₂) is one of the world's most familiar natural molecules, found in coffee beans, tea leaves, cacao, and many other plants. Best known for stimulating the central nervous system, it acts by blocking adenosine receptors, temporarily reducing fatigue and increasing alertness. The artwork featured on this winter neck gaiter is created directly from genuine caffeine crystals, grown in the laboratory and observed under polarized light microscopy. As the solution crystallizes, long needle-like structures emerge, resembling frozen pine needles or icy alpine forests. Their vivid blue, violet, and golden birefringence is not added digitally, it is produced by the interaction of polarized light with the crystal lattice itself. What keeps you awake before a winter adventure becomes the very landscape that accompanies it.

Product Description

Inspired by the sharp geometry of microscopic caffeine crystals, this winter neck gaiter combines scientific imagery with technical performance. The elongated crystalline patterns naturally evoke frost-covered pine forests, making caffeine an unexpected symbol of winter itself. Made from a soft, heavyweight fleece-lined fabric, it provides warmth and comfort for skiing, snowboarding, hiking, or everyday cold-weather wear. The adjustable drawstring ensures a secure fit, while the durable print preserves every intricate crystal detail. More than a winter accessory, it is a wearable scientific landscape, bringing the hidden architecture of one of nature's most iconic molecules into the mountains.

Product Features

  • Soft heavyweight fleece-like fabric (90% polyester, 10% spandex)

  • Adjustable elastic drawstring for a secure fit

  • High-definition print preserving microscopic crystal detail

  • Warm, breathable and comfortable for winter activities

  • Perfect for skiing, snowboarding, hiking and everyday outdoor use

Care Instructions

  • Machine wash cold

  • Air dry recommended

  • Do not bleach

  • Do not iron directly on the printed surface

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BESTSELLER


Entropy : The Arrow of Time
CHF 59.00

Chemical Reaction

NiSO₄ + 2 C₈H₈N₂O₂ → [Ni(C₈H₈N₂O₂)₂]SO₄

This photograph captures the coordination reaction in which the Ni²⁺ ion from NiSO₄ binds to two molecules of the organic ligand C₈H₈N₂O₂, forming a stable coordination complex. The ligands surround the nickel center, modifying its electronic environment. The red color of the complex results from changes in the ligand field around the nickel ion, influencing electronic transitions within the d orbitals and therefore the absorption of visible light, as described by crystal field theory.

Scientific and Philosophical Perspective

This clock is a material representation of irreversible time, as described by thermodynamics and cosmology. In physics, time is not merely a variable, it possesses a direction, known as the arrow of time, which is fundamentally linked to the principle of entropy. According to the Second Law of Thermodynamics, the total entropy of an isolated system can only increase or remain constant. This increase reflects the natural evolution of systems toward states of greater probability, greater energy dispersion, and increasing complexity. It is this fundamental asymmetry that distinguishes the past from the future and makes natural processes irreversible. Presented as a wall clock, Entropy: The Arrow of Time transforms this abstract physical law into an everyday object. Every passing second reminds us that time is not a perfect cycle, but a continuous progression, an expansion, much like the Universe itself.

Time, Entropy, and the Expansion of the Universe

On a cosmological scale, the arrow of time is intrinsically linked to the expansion of the Universe since the Big Bang. As space expands, energy disperses, structures evolve, and global entropy increases. Time therefore becomes the silent witness of this permanent transformation.

The Entropy: The Arrow of Time clock embodies the tension between local order and global disorder:

  • The hands follow a precise and measurable path.

  • The artwork itself evokes the irreversible expansion of time.

It reminds us that every structure, whether cosmic, chemical, or human, is born, transforms, and reorganizes within an irreversible temporal flow.

A Functional Artwork : The Scientific Wall Clock

More than a simple instrument for measuring time, this clock is a visual meditation on time itself. Hung on a wall, it places the passing of hours within a broader reflection on our place in an expanding universe, where every moment is unique, irreversible, and carries the potential for transformation.

Technical Specifications

  • Type: Decorative wall clock

  • Diameter: 25 cm (10")

  • Frame: Solid wood

    • Available finishes: Natural Wood, Black, or White

  • Clock Face: High-definition Plexiglas with fine art print

  • Movement: Silent quartz movement (non-ticking)

  • Hands: Matched to the selected frame finish

  • Mounting: Integrated rear hook for easy wall installation

  • Power: 1 AA battery (not included)

  • Indoor Use Only

  • Care Instructions: Clean with a soft, dry microfiber cloth.

Vitamin B12 Crystal Football Jersey
from CHF 89.00

Vitamin B12 Crystal Football Jersey

Where chemistry meets performance. This customizable football jersey features authentic microscopic crystal patterns of Vitamin B12 (C₆₃H₈₈CoN₁₄O₁₄P), photographed after laboratory crystallization under polarized light. Every pattern visible on the fabric comes from a real crystal not an illustration or AI-generated texture. Vitamin B12 is one of the most important vitamins for athletes. It plays a fundamental role in energy metabolism, helping the body convert carbohydrates, fats and proteins into usable energy. It is also essential for the formation of red blood cells, oxygen transport, proper nervous system function and normal muscle performance during exercise. At the center of every Vitamin B12 molecule lies a single cobalt atom. This metal gives the vitamin its characteristic deep crimson-red color, making Vitamin B12 one of the very few naturally occurring cobalt-containing biomolecules found in the human body. The vibrant red crystal structures seen on this jersey are therefore a direct expression of the molecule's crystalline unique chemistry. Designed for athletes who appreciate both science and design, this jersey transforms molecular architecture into wearable performance apparel. It can be fully personalized with your own name and number, making every piece unique. This is not simply a football jersey. It is a celebration of the chemistry that powers the human body.

Features

  • Authentic Vitamin B12 crystal patterns captured under a polarized light microscope

  • Designed by one of the body's essential vitamins for energy metabolism

  • Cobalt-based molecule responsible for the characteristic deep red crystal color

  • Fully customizable with your own name and number

  • Lightweight, breathable performance fabric

  • 100% High Quality Polyester

  • 100% Made in Italy

  • Fully customizable with your own name and number

  • High-definition sublimation print that will never crack or peel

  • Designed by Helnium in Switzerland

Please note: Each jersey is handcrafted specifically for you. Production begins after your order is placed, with an estimated production time of 2–3 weeks before shipping.

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OUR SERVICES


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ABOUT


Helnium

HELNIUM is building a new language of design from science. Founded by chemist Hélène Lambert, the studio turns real molecules, crystals and materials into visual identities, products and experiences through advanced microscopy techniques and experimentation. Across fashion, sport, cosmetics and materials, science becomes the creative process and the laboratory becomes the design studio.

OUR TEAM

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revealing the beauty hidden in science.

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FROM WINE TO CRYSTAL

From a drop of wine to its crystalline pattern, transformed into its own label.