So you bought some lovely copper jewelry, or a pot, or another piece and suddenly it's black and green, and maybe you are too! My title might be a little misleading, I don't know of any way to prevent tarnish, I do however know how to prevent it from getting out of hand.

I love copper and almost everything about it, I create unique jewelry out of it using mostly recycled copper from power plants and refineries. I love wearing copper, and it is thought to have healing properties for those who suffer from arthritis.

But . . . copper tarnishes, and if you don't stay on top of it you will too!

When creating a piece of jewelry I first polish my material with a paste by the name of Hagerty 100 which contains a tarnish preventative-but sometimes a paste is not appropriate.

What I do is very old fashioned, but it works! I dip my jewelry before I wear it in either white vinegar or lemon juice. It would probably be just as effective to do so after you wear a piece, but I am lazy! I have never had a problem with this method even on the natural stones I use in creating my jewelry. This really brings out the beautiful copper color. After you remove the jewelry rinse in water then dry with a sof cloth while rubbing gently; which will give the piece a beautiful shine.

If tarnish is very heavy soak for a little longer (maybe 10 minutes) in either vinegar or lemon juice, to loosen it. Then pour a little table salt on the jewelry (making a paste) and scrub using an old toothbrush. This works particularly well on the bottoms of old pots, although these sometimes require a little heavier hand and maybe some steel wool. Steel wool is also good on copper jewelry, but you must be much more careful as it will permanently change a finish.

Key is keeping the copper clean, I recommend not spraying any perfume or other cosmetics on it, and removing it when washing your hands, dishes etc. Your copper jewelry should be the last thing you put on when getting dressed.

I hope this little guide helps.

Barrie

Jewelry and Metalwork by MeltnMetal