Copper Facts and Care
What is copper?
Copper is an essential mineral. Copper is a metal alloy with a reddish-orange color. Pure copper is very soft and malleable. Copper is an extremely durable metal and is often used in products designed to last a very long time. As jewelry, copper will last a lifetime or longer. It has been used as a decorative coating of famous gates, such as the Temple of Jerusalem. The Statue of Liberty is the largest copper statue in the world.
The healing properties of copper in the form of bracelets, necklaces, rings, or earrings, can allow a minimal amount of the mineral into the body without overwhelming it. Some wearers of copper jewelry find it relieves the symptoms of arthritis and circulation problems. People who are deficient in copper may benefit from wearing copper jewelry, since it can be absorbed through the skin. Jewelry is a good way of taking in the small amount of the mineral needed.
On a holistic level, copper has historically been associated as the body metal, and is considered a grounding metal for the human body and spirit. (Silver is the metal of the spirit, and gold is the metal of the mind.)
Spiritually, copper is also considered a metal capable of storing healing properties holistically, as well as having protective properties. This is why it was used in ancient times for totems.
| About Copper Jewelry |
Occasionally, copper jewelry or the skin of its wearer can turn green. This happens when the metal interacts with sweat and is referred to as copper chelates. The chelates assimilate to the body and are absorbed, and many wearers expect this to happen as proof that the copper is working with their body. Green coloring on the skin comes off with soap and water, and polishing copper jewelry is as easy as finding an acidic item in the kitchen. Lemon and ketchup are both excellent for cleaning copper jewelry. Simply place the piece of jewelry in a small bowl and cover with your choice of cleaner. Let it soak for no longer than 20 minutes. If necessary, use a soft toothbrush to reach into crevices on the jewelry. Use mild soap and water to wash the acidic cleaner off the jewelry and pat dry with a soft cloth. The piece of copper jewelry should regain its shine and look new again. Please DO NOT leave your jewelry in the acid soak for a extended period of time OR if your copper jewelry has pearls, or any other soft stone DO NOT use any of these ways of cleaning!
About your WRD Jewelry
Your piece was woven with raw 100% copper wire. As part of creating the look of the metal color or “patina” I frequently use a product that ages the wire to however I feel looks the best and then it is cleaned while manipulating the colors of the wire to give it more depth. I then seal it with a fine mist of spray lacquer.
Cleaning for your piece.
Depending on the amount of wear and time, your piece might lose it’s shine and dull. To clean it, simply use a tooth brush and some ivory soap. Brush it in the directions of the weave. Pat it dry and then air dry completely. Store in a dry, cool place.
Caring for your piece.
Do not shower, sleep, or expose your creations to harsh chemicals such as those found in hot tubs or swimming pools, or exercise while wearing your piece. Do not clean your creations with ultrasonic jewelry cleaner or abrasive fabrics. Avoid intense and/or prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.
My hope is that what I create brings joy,
Peggy
@Warmrainyday jewelry