Copper Jewellery Cleaning & Care Guide

Copper jewellery, including copper bracelets and rings, naturally darkens and develops a patina over time. This is a normal process caused by exposure to air, moisture, skin oils and everyday wear.

If your copper bracelet or ring becomes dull or tarnished, you can easily clean it at home using the methods below.

How to Clean Copper Jewellery

Method 1: Lemon or Lime & Salt

This method can help remove tarnish and restore the brighter appearance of plain, uncoated copper jewellery.

You will need:
• 1 lemon or lime
• A small amount of table salt
• Warm water
• A soft cloth

Steps:
1. Cut the lemon or lime in half.
2. Sprinkle a small amount of salt onto the copper.
3. Gently rub the lemon or lime over the copper surface.
4. Rinse thoroughly with warm water.
5. Dry completely with a soft cloth.

Important: Do not use lemon, lime, vinegar or other acidic cleaners on jewellery containing crystals, gemstones, pearls, enamel, protective coatings or other delicate materials. For these pieces, use the mild dish soap and warm water method below.

Method 2: Mild Dish Soap & Warm Water

This is the gentlest cleaning method and is suitable for regular cleaning and many copper jewellery pieces containing crystals or gemstones.

You will need:
• Warm water
• A small amount of mild dish soap
• A soft cloth

Steps:
1. Mix a small amount of mild dish soap with warm water.
2. Gently clean the jewellery with a soft cloth.
3. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
4. Dry completely with a soft, clean cloth.

How to Care for Copper Jewellery

To help keep your copper jewellery looking its best:

• Remove jewellery before showering, swimming or exercising.
• Avoid contact with perfume, lotions and harsh chemicals.
• Wipe your jewellery with a soft cloth after wearing.
• Keep copper jewellery dry when storing.
• Store pieces separately to help prevent scratches and tarnishing.

Why Does Copper Jewellery Tarnish?

Copper naturally reacts with air, moisture and substances on the skin. This oxidation can cause copper to become darker or develop a greenish patina over time.

This is a normal characteristic of copper and can be removed when you prefer a brighter appearance.

Can I Keep the Natural Copper Patina?

Yes. Some people prefer the darker, aged appearance that naturally develops on copper jewellery. You do not need to remove the patina unless you prefer the brighter copper look.

Quick Copper Jewellery Care

For tarnished plain, uncoated copper: Use lemon or lime and salt.

For regular cleaning: Use mild dish soap, warm water and a soft cloth.

For copper jewellery with crystals or gemstones: Use the gentle soap and water method, while taking care to follow any specific care requirements for the particular stone.

Avoid: Harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, bleach and acidic cleaners on jewellery containing stones, protective coatings or delicate materials.