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Anticlastic Jewelry / Articles / New Copper Jewelry — 71 Comments
3
Jul 10

Distinctive Handmade Copper Jewelry

Texturized Anticlastic Copper Bracelet

Texturized Anticlastic Copper Bracelet

Properties of Copper Jewelry

Copper jewelry has been worn for ages, to a certain extent for overall health factors as some think that it enhances good blood circulation and eases the symptoms of arthritis. While those promises have not been scientifically confirmed, copper has been shown to possess antimicrobial components (helping to ward off microbes as well as illness). Still, it is more likely that the continued use of copper jewelry has much more to do with its exclusive luster and color than it does with its germ-fighting capability!

Copper jewelry can be sought-after by those who like an earthy, ethnic look but more and more it can also be found making an appearance among the many collections of quality jewelry manufacturers. It provides an very affordable alternative to popular higher priced rose gold due to its charming pinkish color when copper is at its most basic form. The warmness of copper also creates a satisfying contrast alongside silver’s cooler tones.

Countless artisans additionally take pleasure in working with this particular metal because of its toughness and versatility. With time, oxidation may cause unprotected copper to darken into a warm brown color which generally increases the look of jewellery pieces. Moreover, contact with the elements causes untreated copper to form a bluish-green patina that is generally coveted by individuals who appreciate a unique look. Gifted jewellery designers use this natural discoloration of copper to create distinctive and modern patterns and designs.

Care Tips for Copper Jewelry

Uncoated bright copper jewellery can tarnish as time passes but tend to be easily restored to its original state. You can aquire commercial restoring cloths or dip your jewellery in a bath of warm water, a number of drops of lemon juice and some salt. Dry with a delicate cloth and the classic warmth and beauty of your pieces will quickly return. Note: silver polish should not be used on copper jewelry as it is harsh and can mar the finish.

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Articles — 489 Comments
28
Jan 09

Care Tips for your Handmade Copper Jewelry

Embossed Bubble Copper Earrings by John S. Brana

Bubble Embossed Copper Earrings

Keeping Your Copper Jewelry Shiny

The best method to keep your copper jewelry nice and shiny, is to store it in a re-sealable plastic bag or jewelry case with anti-tarnish paper.  Make sure your jewelry is clean and moisture free before storing.  When you receive my copper jewelry, the piece has been initially treated with a protective coating to provide you with the easiest care possible. With extended wear, however, the coating will eventually wear off (especially on surfaces that are in direct contact with the skin – rings, bracelets, necklaces).  Once this occurs, it is surprisingly easy to care for copper jewelry just as it is for sterling silver or gold jewelry.  A good point to remember is that copper is the catalyst that speeds up oxidation/tarnish in precious metals, so only 24K Gold and Fine Silver will not tarnish, since they are not alloyed with copper.

Copper Jewelry Cleaning Tips

The best way to bring back luster to any piece of jewelry is to use a jewelry polishing cloth that can be easily purchased at most jewelry stores, online, and at many drugstores.  A jewelry polishing cloth can last for years.  For those more delicate pieces, have a professional jeweler steam clean or use an ultrasonic cleaner.  Don’t attempt to clean the piece yourself, especially if set with a gemstone(s).  Gems are easily damaged by ultrasonic cleaners, so you could end up with a worthless gemstone by trying to save a few bucks by doing things yourself.  When in doubt, take your jewelry to a professional.

At any point in time, you can mail any of my designs back to me for a free cleaning.

If you find yourself in a pinch for time, here are a few copper cleaning tips (do not use with gemstones or pearl set jewelry), you can use any of these acid based household products:

  • Vinegar – (White, Apple Cider, Wine, Balsamic) Place the item in a glass or plastic container (not metal). Pour enough vinegar until it completely covers the piece.  Let stand four about 10-15 minutes.  Rinse.  Dry.  Done!
  • Lemon or Lime Juice – Follow the directions used above for vinegar…add a dash of salt.
  • Worcestershire Sauce or Ketchup Apply it with a toothbrush or soft cloth, then rinse thoroughly. Avoid getting ketchup on gemstones that should not be used with chemical cleaners.

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Articles — 15 Comments
27
Jan 09

Interesting Facts About Copper

Native Copper Nugget

Copper Nugget

Copper History

Copper in its naturally occurring state was probably the first metal to be used by humans. Neolithic people used copper as a substitute for stone by 8000 B.C. It was first cast by the Egyptians around 4000 B.C., and was alloyed with tin to produce Bronze around 3500 B.C. Copper was associated with the goddess Aphrodite/Venus in mythology and alchemy, owing to its lustrous beauty and its ancient use in producing mirrors. Copper takes its name from the Latin aes Cyprium, meaning “metal of Cyprus,” shortened to cyprium and later corrupted to cuprum.

Although folk lore abounds with stories of how the wearing of copper helps ease the pain and discomfort of arthritis, you might want to order one just because it is a beautiful piece of jewelry. The Keweenaw Peninsula of Michigan has probably the world’s largest concentration of native copper.  Other localities include Bolivia, the Ural Mountains in Russia, England, Australia, Germany, and Arizona.

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