Copper jewelry is beautiful and eye-catching, but it can also tarnish and lose its luster over time. However, cleaning copper jewelry is easy and can be done with common household items. Here are the simple 4 steps you can follow to give your copper jewelry new life and extra shine. 

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies 

You'll need the following:

• White vinegar
• Salt
• Flour
• Baking soda
• A bowl
• A soft-bristled brush

Step 2: Mix the Cleaning Solution

In a bowl, mix together equal parts of white vinegar and salt. The combination of salt and vinegar creates a powerful cleaning solution that will dissolve the tarnish and grime from your copper jewelry.

 If you have tough spots or areas that are harder to reach, you can add a little bit of flour to the mixture to create a paste.

Step 3: Soak the Jewelry

Submerge your copper jewelry in the cleaning solution and let it soak for 10-15 minutes. For more intricate pieces or areas that are harder to reach, use a soft-bristled brush to scrub the jewelry gently. The vinegar and salt will break down the tarnish and make it easier to remove.

Step 4: Rinse and Dry

After you've finished soaking and scrubbing your jewelry, rinse it off with warm water. Dry your jewelry with a soft cloth or let it air dry. If there are still some tarnished spots, you can make a paste with baking soda and water and gently rub it onto the affected areas.

How to Store Copper Jewelry

To store your copper jewelry, it is best to keep it in a cool, dry place away from moisture and direct sunlight. Store each piece separately to prevent scratches and tangling. 

A soft cloth or jewelry pouch is ideal for protecting the pieces from dust and damage. To prevent tarnishing, store copper jewelry in an airtight container or a plastic bag with a desiccant packet to absorb any moisture. Avoid storing copper pieces near other metals as this can cause a chemical reaction and discoloration.

FAQs

Q: Can you shower with copper jewelry?

A: It is not recommended to shower with copper jewelry. Water, especially hot water, can cause your treasures to tarnish or discolor more quickly.

Additionally, exposure to water and soap can cause copper to lose its shine and dull over time. It's best to remove any jewelry, especially copper, before showering, swimming, or exposing it to any other water-related activities.

Q: Can I use coca-cola to clean copper jewelry?

A: Coca-Cola or other soft drinks containing phosphoric acid can be used to clean copper jewelry. The acid in the drink acts as a tarnish remover and can restore the shine of copper jewelry.

To clean copper jewelry with Coca-Cola, soak the jewelry in the drink for a few minutes, then rinse it with warm water and dry it thoroughly with a soft cloth. 

However, it's important to note that using Coca-Cola or other soft drinks for cleaning purposes should be done with caution, as the acid in the drink can also cause damage to the jewelry over time.

Q: How often should I clean my copper jewelry?

A: The frequency of cleaning depends on several factors such as the amount of exposure to the elements and how often you wear the jewelry.

On average, copper jewelry may need to be cleaned every 2 to 3 months to maintain its shine and appearance. If you wear the jewelry frequently, it may need to be cleaned more often.

Tarnishing can also occur more quickly if the jewelry is exposed to substances such as cosmetics, lotions, and perfumes.

To maintain the appearance of your copper pieces, it's a good idea to store it in an airtight container or a plastic bag with a desiccant packet when not in use and to remove it before showering, swimming, or exposing it to water.

Learning how to clean copper jewelry is a simple, easy process that will keep your treasures shining for years to come. With these steps, you can easily restore the luster of your copper jewelry. Regular cleaning will help keep your collection looking beautiful indefinitely. 

Related article: How to Clean Your Antiques