On the horizon: More Copper Goodies

I've stayed away from copper in the past because I am one of the unlucky who turn green upon prolonged contact.

Upon reading all the good effects of copper, I've decided to give it a second chance. Maybe the green effect came from my poor (wait, I mean non-existent) jewelry care techniques.

Copper is a wonder metal. It is anti-bacterial and anti-microbial and has been considered for surfaces that receive a lot of contact such as door handles, etc. It plays a beneficial role in many systems of the body: cardiovascular, skeletal and nervous systems. It is even said to protect against cancer. One of the main uses for copper jewelry is to help relieve pain and soreness caused by arthritis. Of course these are popular belief, but worth a try, considering some of the other alternatives.

Raw copper is has an orangey metallic glow. As it comes in contact with moisture and air it will oxidize and turn to a chocolatey brown, then after a long time or after chemicals are applied it will change to a mint green.

I use raw copper in my creations, as coated copper (sometimes advertised as non-tarnish, or tarnish resistant) will not be able to impart the supposed good effects. It's the prolonged exposure to moist skin and certain body chemistries that are most likely to turn green. It isn't harmful, it should come off the next time you shower. To prevent your skin from changing color, be sure to clean copper jewelry regularly, and store in an air tight container when not in use.

To keep the orangey brand new copper look, try cleaning the piece in a mixture of warm water, lemon juice and salt. To obtain the rich chocolate brown just leave the piece out in the open and allow air to circulate around it. For the patinaed look, exposure to ammonia-based household cleaners should do the trick and the color can range from mint green to a tealy blue. There are some other finishes that can be achieved as well, when copper is heated it changes colors and iridescent effects can be created. Now, If I could only get over my torch fear!

I'm so happy to be able to work with such a versatile metal. It's added a whole new dimension to the pieces I am able to create. Hopefully, you enjoy them as well.