How to Clean Copper Jewelry

Copper jewelry is cherished for its warm, earthy tones and affordability. Over time, though exposure to air, moisture, and the oils on your skin can cause copper to tarnish, resulting in a dull, greenish or brownish appearance. Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential to keep your copper jewelry looking vibrant and polished.

In this guide, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of how to clean copper jewelry, the materials you need, and expert tips to ensure you restore and preserve your pieces effectively. 

Why Does Copper Jewelry Tarnish?

Before diving into cleaning methods, it’s essential to understand why does copper tarnish. Copper reacts with oxygen and moisture in the air to form copper oxide (a greenish or brownish layer known as patina). While some people enjoy the antique look that patina gives to copper, others prefer the bright, shiny finish of polished copper.

In addition to air and moisture, copper can react with the natural oils on your skin or lotions and perfumes you wear, further contributing to tarnishing.

Key Causes of Copper Tarnish:

• Exposure to oxygen and moisture (oxidation)
• Contact with skin oils, lotions, and perfumes
• Humidity and sweat
• Certain cleaning chemicals or harsh environments

Now that you know why your copper jewelry tarnishes, let’s explore how to clean and restore it.

Tools and Materials for Cleaning Copper Jewelry

Before you start cleaning your copper jewelry, gather the right materials. Using the correct tools ensures that you don’t damage your jewelry while effectively removing tarnish.

Essential Cleaning Tools:

• Soft microfiber cloths or lint-free cloths
• Mild dish soap or a pH-neutral cleaner
• Lemon juice or vinegar
• Baking soda
• Soft-bristle toothbrush (optional for intricate designs)
• Commercial copper polish (optional)

Optional Protection:

• Clear nail polish or a jewelry-specific sealer to prevent future tarnish

Pro Tip: Always perform a patch test on a small area of your jewelry before using any cleaning solution, especially if your copper jewelry is coated or contains other materials like gemstones.

How to Clean Copper Jewelry: Step-by-Step Cleaning Methods

There are various cleaning methods you can use depending on the severity of the tarnish. Below, we’ll cover a few effective techniques, from basic cleaning to deep tarnish removal.

Method 1: Mild Soap and Water Method

If your copper jewelry only has light tarnishing, a simple soap and water solution may be enough to restore its shine. This is a gentle method suitable for frequent cleaning.

Steps:

1. Fill a small bowl with warm water and add a few drops of mild dish soap.
2. Submerge your copper jewelry in the soapy water for a few minutes.
3. Use your fingers or a soft cloth to gently rub away dirt and tarnish.
4. For intricate designs, use a soft-bristle toothbrush to clean hard-to-reach areas.
5. Rinse the jewelry thoroughly under running water.
6. Pat dry with a microfiber cloth to avoid water spots.

Pro Tip: Never soak copper jewelry for too long, especially if it contains other materials like gemstones or coatings.

Method 2: Lemon and Baking Soda Method

Lemon juice is a natural acid that can effectively remove tarnish from copper, while baking soda adds a gentle abrasive quality for more thorough cleaning.

Steps:

1. Cut a lemon in half and sprinkle baking soda onto the exposed surface.
2. Rub the lemon over the tarnished areas of your copper jewelry, applying gentle pressure.
3. For more detailed cleaning, you can create a paste by mixing lemon juice and baking soda, then applying it with a soft cloth or toothbrush.
4. Allow the paste to sit on the jewelry for 2-3 minutes.
5. Rinse the jewelry under warm water and dry with a soft cloth.

Pro Tip: This method is highly effective for heavily tarnished copper, but avoid using it on copper pieces with delicate coatings or embedded stones.

Method 3: Vinegar and Salt Soak

Vinegar is another natural cleaner that can dissolve tarnish. When combined with salt, it creates a powerful solution to restore shine to your copper jewelry.

Steps:

1. Mix ½ cup of white vinegar with 1 tablespoon of salt in a small bowl.
2. Submerge your copper jewelry in the solution for about 5-10 minutes.
3. Use a soft cloth or brush to scrub away any remaining tarnish.
4. Rinse thoroughly with water and dry with a microfiber cloth.

Pro Tip: Be sure to dry the jewelry completely to prevent moisture from contributing to future tarnishing.

Method 4: Commercial Copper Polish

For those who prefer using store-bought products, commercial copper polishes are available and can be effective in restoring copper jewelry to its original shine. These polishes are specially formulated to remove tarnish without damaging the copper.

Steps:

1. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for applying the polish.
2. Typically, you will need to apply a small amount of polish to a soft cloth and rub the jewelry gently.
3. After polishing, rinse the jewelry with water and dry thoroughly.

Pro Tip: Always use polishes designed specifically for copper to avoid abrasive chemicals that could damage the jewelry.

Preventing Tarnish to Keep Your Copper Jewelry Clean Longer

While cleaning copper jewelry is easy, preventing tarnish in the first place can save you time and effort. With a few simple precautions, you can extend the time between cleanings and keep your copper pieces looking their best.

Store Jewelry Properly

Proper storage can help reduce exposure to air and moisture, both of which contribute to tarnishing. Store your copper jewelry in a cool, dry place, away from humidity.

Storage Tips:

• Keep jewelry in a soft pouch or jewelry box with anti-tarnish strips.
• Consider using silica gel packs to absorb moisture in your jewelry box.
• Store each piece separately to avoid scratches or unwanted reactions between different metals.

Avoid Exposure to Chemicals

Copper can react with chemicals found in lotions, perfumes, and cleaning products, causing tarnish to develop more quickly.

Protective Measures:

• Apply lotion and perfume before putting on copper jewelry.
• Remove copper jewelry before swimming, showering, or doing household chores.
• Wipe down jewelry with a soft cloth after wearing to remove skin oils and sweat.

Seal with Clear Nail Polish

One effective way to protect copper jewelry from tarnishing is by applying a thin layer of clear nail polish or a jewelry-specific sealer. This creates a barrier between the copper and the elements that cause tarnishing.

Pro Tip: Apply nail polish to areas that come into contact with your skin, as this is where tarnishing often occurs the fastest.

When to Seek Professional Help

While most tarnish can be easily cleaned at home, there are some cases where professional cleaning or restoration might be necessary. If your copper jewelry is antique, highly valuable, or has gemstones that could be damaged by home cleaning methods, it’s best to take it to a jeweler who specializes in copper jewelry.

Professional cleaners use specialized equipment and techniques to clean and restore your jewelry without causing damage.

Final Thoughts

Copper jewelry is a beautiful, versatile addition to any collection, but it requires a bit of upkeep to maintain its shine and color. By following the cleaning methods outlined above and taking preventive measures, you can keep your copper jewelry looking bright and beautiful for years to come.

Remember, the key to preserving copper jewelry is regular maintenance and proper storage. Cleaning tarnish as soon as it appears and avoiding exposure to moisture and chemicals will go a long way in keeping your pieces in pristine condition.

Now that you’re equipped with the knowledge of how to clean copper jewelry, you can enjoy wearing your favorite pieces without the worry of tarnishing or discoloration!