How To Clean Brass And Copper Jewelry
How to Clean Copper Jewelry: The Complete Care Guide
Copper jewelry has a unique warm reddish orange luster which sets it apart from other metals. For centuries, it has been a favorite of jewelry makers, thanks to its relative cheapness, malleability and supposed healing properties. But copper does tarnish and oxides over time, so it requires a little TLC to keep its pretty shine. Here is a complete guide that will help you how to clean and maintain your copper jewelry.
Understanding Copper Jewelry
The Rich History of Copper in Jewelry
Copper: The Cheap Metal Which Makes Beautiful JewelryCopper Jewelry: How to Maintain the Purity and Shine
Copper has been used for jewelry making for thousands of years, as far back as the Prehistoric era, some 10,000 years ago. The Ancient Egyptians were amongst the first civilizations to make jewelry from copper, circa 2,500 BC, and skilled craftsmen turned ornate crowns and headdresses into a sign of higher status in society. Native American cultures also revered copper, making hammered and etched pendants, earrings, bracelets and beads to reflect status and importance.
Why Copper Jewelry Is Special
The malleability of copper makes it perfect to create elaborate and decorative pieces of jewelry. It goes really well with semi-precious gemstones specifically pink or red undertones such as rose quartz, rhodochrosite, and garnet.
Besides the aesthetic aspect, copper is thought to have therapeutic properties. Copper as an essential trace mineral in human body is believed to:
- Improve blood circulation
- Decrease inflammation and pain associated with arthritis
- Increase energy levels
- Assist in the breakdown and absorption of iron
- Helping create red blood cells, collagen and connective tissue
- Stay in tune with thoughts and feelings
Why Copper Jewelry Tarnishes
Copper tarnishes faster than other metals such as gold or sterling silver due to a chemical process known as oxidation. Copper reacts with oxygen, water, sweat, lotions, and even the natural oils in your skin:
- Tarnish – A brownish coverage manner that dulls the natural luster of the metal
- Patina – A greenish layer (what you see on the Statue of Liberty supplies ) that develops after long-term coverage
- Green residue — The greenish stain that sometimes transfers to your skin while wearing copper jewelry
Although some people like the aged appearance of a natural patina, most would rather keep the original warm glow of copper. To maintain that glint, regular cleaning is a must.
Before You Clean: Things to Know
Is Your Copper Jewelry Coated?
Before you try Vanya and Theresa’s method or any cleaning method, make sure your copper jewelry hasn’t been sealed with a protective coating (such as wax, spray or liquid sealant). Most of the jewelry artists are sealing with copper so that it does not tarnish, corrode, and soil the skin.
How to determine whether your copper is sealed:
- If you’ve had your jewelry for a while now, and it hasn’t changed colors (but it might look a little dull), it’s most likely sealed.
- Since sealed copper usually doesn’t stain the skin green
- The surface may feel slightly different than raw copper
Pick no style cleaning for sealed copper jewelry like no power cleaning and what is the best way to protect the copper jewelry is forever your been stick cleaning by a lord piece with warm water and soap.
Is There a Gemstone in Your Copper Jewelry?
Copper gemstone jewelry can be more finicky, though: Many cleaning products (acids, especially vinegar or lemon juice) will weaken some gemstones. For gem-set copper pieces:
- Only use gentle cleaning methods
- Avoid soaking in any solution
- Gently clean around stones with a soft cloth
- Always check with a professional jeweler when in doubt
Homemade Tips on How To Clean Copper Jewelry at Home
Method 1: Soap and Water (Safest Method)
Best for: Any copper jewelry, whether sealed or unsealed and whether or not it contains gemstones
What you’ll need:
- Mild dish soap
- Warm water
- Soft microfiber cloth
- Optional: Soft-bristled toothbrush
- Clean towel
Steps:
- Combine a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water in a small bowl
- Soak your microfiber cloth in the solution and wipe your copper jewelry.
- The answer: For more elaborate designs, use a soft-bristled toothbrush to reach nooks and crannies.
- Dos: Rinse out thoroughly with clean water
- Wipe dry with a clean towel then completely air dry before storing
Method 2: Using Lemon and Salt Solution
Not best for: Somewhat tarnished copper with any gems attached
What you’ll need:
- 1 fresh lemon
- 1-2 tablespoons of table salt
- Small bowl
- Soft cloth
- Optional: Soft-bristled toothbrush
- Clean water for rinsing
Steps:
- In a bowl, combine equal parts of lemon juice and salt to a paste
- Rub the paste on your copper jewelry using a cloth
- Rub the paste lightly over the tarnished spots
- For more detailed pieces, use a small soft toothbrush to work the solution into any crevices
- Thoroughly rinse with clean water.
- Then dry thoroughly with a soft cloth
The acidic lemon juice will break down the tarnish, and the salt is just abrasive enough to remove the tarnish and restore shine.
Method 3: Vinegar Solution
Best for: Very tarnished copper, no gemstones
What you’ll need:
- White vinegar
- Kosher salt – 1-2 tablespoons, optional
- Small bowl
- Soft cloth or old toothbrush
- Clean water for rinsing
Steps:
Fill a bowl with white vinegar (enough to generously cover your jewellery).
- 4 tablespoons of salt for extra tectonic cleansing power (optional)
- Soak your copper jewelry for about 15-20 minutes
- Pick them off and scrub gently with a soft cloth or toothbrush
- Rinse well with clean water
- Wipe dry with a soft cloth
Method 4: Baking Soda Paste
Best for copper, with no gems, that’s got a particularly stubborn tarnish
What you’ll need:
- 2-3 tablespoons of baking soda
- Lemon juice or water
- Small bowl
- Soft cloth or toothbrush
- Clean water for rinsing
Steps:
- Combine some baking soda with sufficient lemon juice or water to form a thick paste
- Spread the paste over your copper jewelry
- Rub the paste gently onto the tarnished spots
- In detailed areas, use a soft toothbrush
- Lather and Rinse: Apply a few drops of liquid soap on your fingers and gently scrub the surface of your Rawhide, and rinse well with clean water
- Wipe dry with a soft cloth
Step 5: Use Ketchup (Don’t Knock It Till You Try It)
Best for: Slightly tarnished copper, no gemstones
What you’ll need:
- Plain tomato ketchup
- Small bowl
- Soft cloth or toothbrush
- Clean water for rinsing
Steps:
- Rub ketchup directly onto your copper jewelry or submerge the piece in a small bowl of ketchup
- Let it sit for 10-15 minutes
- Use a soft cloth or toothbrush to gently scrub
- Thoroughly rinse with clean water
- Dry thoroughly with a soft cloth
The acidity in tomato ketchup functions the same way as lemon juice or vinegar to dissolve tarnish.
Copper Jewelry Care: Preventing Tarnish
Daily Care Tips
- Take off before showering or swimming: Chlorine, soaps, and shampoos accelerate tarnishing.
- Bite the bullet and clean after every wear: Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe away oils, sweat and moisture after every wear.
- Before jewelry: We recommend using lotions, perfumes and cosmetics before your copper jewelry to reduce exposure to the chemicals in these products.
- Store accordingly: Store your copper jewelry in a cool, dry area, preferably in an anti-tarnish pouch or box lined with anti-tarnish paper.
- Keep copper apart from other metals: Store copper pieces in a separate location from other jewelry to avoid scratching and chemical reactions.
Sealing Your Copper Jewelry
To make the time in between cleanings longer, try sealing your copper jewelry:
Commercial Options:
- Renaissance wax
- ProtectaClear
- Nail polish (for simple ones, through clear)
Application:
- Clean them and dry them thoroughly
- Apply a thin, smooth layer of sealant per the product instructions
- Let dry completely before wearing
- Depending on the product, reapply every few months or as needed
When to Call in a Professional Cleaning Service
Most copper jewelry can be easily cleaned at home, but for…
- Rare or collectible copper items
- Intricate installs with out of reach spaces
- Gemstones delicately encrusted on copper jewelry
- Items with mixed metals and other materials
Patina to Be: When Not to Clean
In fact, some people who love copper jewelry want theirs to develop a patina and stay that way. For the visually inclined vintage aesthetic:
- Let your copper oxidize and form a natural layer of patina
- Clean only when tarnish is getting to the extreme
- Place the brown paper on the walls where you must vacuum — areas or textured materials that touch your skin to keep green marks away
- Use selective cleaning to reveal design details while retaining patina in less accessed areas
Green Marks on Skin: What to Know
The green streaks that occasionally show up on skin after wearing copper jewelry pose no health risks and can be removed with soap and water. This response differs from individual to individual depending on:
- Individual body chemistry
- Acidity of skin
- Medications being taken
- Diet and hydration levels
To minimize green marks:
- Ensure your copper jewelry is clean
- Maybe seal your copper pieces
- Avoid wearing jewelry while engaging in intense physical activity
- Use something like clear nail polish as a barrier on areas that touch skin directly
Conclusion: How To Clean Copper And Brass Jewelry
With some care and regular cleaning, your copper jewelry can retain its warm, unique shine for generations. Because copper is less expensive than other metals yet has antimicrobial properties, the natural beauty of copper can be a great addition to any jewelery collection. By using the copper caring methods and preventative care tips detailed in this guide, the copper pieces in your home will continue to shine and provide joy in your life for years to come.
Keep in mind that every piece of copper jewelry is unique, and some of its charm comes from how it interacts with its wearer. Whether you enjoy a bright polish or prefer the developing patina, your copper jewelry holds a tale that becomes richer over time.
