Copper 101

Copper Oxidization: The Natural Process

Copper naturally reacts to it’s surrounding environment and will change color over time due to the exposure of the elements such as oxygen, water,  heat, and pressure.  Copper darkens, browns, or can develop green/blue patina spots. No two pieces will age the same. 

Copper Cleaning: DIY

Metal polishing cloths can help clean, brighten, and shine your copper. 

If you're the DIY sort - there are pantry items that can be used for copper cleaning such as lemon, salt, and vinegar. Use at your own caution and discretion. I've tried the following methods with my Mother Nature pendant. 

• LEMON & SALT - cut a lemon in half and sprinkle a heavy dose of salt on the cut side of lemon. Then use the lemon as a scrubber to rub on the copper. Rinse copper with water and dry. In our experience if the copper is fully tarnished the lemon & salt method does not clean the entire surface and gives a different look each time. This method removes tarnish from the flat exposed surfaces but won’t reach small crevices. 

• VINEGAR & SALT - dissolve a tablespoon of salt in a bowl of vinegar and submerge the copper in the bowl for up to 15 minutes. We used a small brush to scrub the piece while it was submerged. Rinse & dry.

There were also a few additional DIY methods using ketchup and a baking soda/vinegar mix. But we have not yet tested them. 

Copper: & the Metaphysical

Copper carries earth energy, reminding us to walk in balance with nature. It’s believed to assist the body in repairing tissues, oxygenating blood, easing arthritis, increasing vitality, and strengthening the female reproductive systems.

Copper is a chemical element with the symbol "Cu" and atomic number 29. It is a soft, malleable, and ductile metal with very high thermal and electrical conductivity. A freshly exposed surface of pure copper has a pinkish-orange color.