20% Off LIMITED Winter Sale Ends SOON! Use Promo Code "WINTER" At Checkout. Pieces Are Limited.

by Jesus Zabala - 4 min read

How to Clean Copper Jewelry

How to clean copper jewelry is important to know to keep your copper jewelry looking its best. Copper jewelry has been worn for centuries and is still a great choice because of its warm color and the anecdotal evidence of how this metal can ease inflammation and pain.

  • However, it can blacken or oxidize over time due to humidity in the air, dust, human touch, and certain chemicals. Have you noticed this, too, and wondered how to clean copper jewelry?
  • A buildup of dirt and grime can tarnish your jewelry and make it look dull if left unattended.
  • Therefore, it is important to store your copper jewelry safely and take good care to prevent this.

Check out this article for quick solutions to clean your copper jewelry easily using items readily available in your house.

How to Clean Copper Jewelry

How To Clean Copper Jewelry At Home

Baking Soda And Lemon Juice

Baking soda is an excellent non-abrasive cleaner for precious metals, such as copper and silver. It absorbs dirt and grime easily and removes tarnish from jewelry.

The process is as stated below:

  • Mix water, a bit of lemon juice, and a tablespoon of baking soda in a bowl.
  • Soak your copper jewelry in this solution for a few hours or overnight.
  • Rinse the jewelry thoroughly with water the next day.
  • Buff the jewelry with a soft toothbrush to remove stains or tarnish. You can also use a soft cloth to rub away any grime or dirt.

Vinegar

Vinegar is a natural and non-toxic cleaning agent for removing stains and tarnishes from your copper. Follow the steps below:

  • Pour some vinegar into a pan and place the jewelry.
  • Once completely submerged, bring the vinegar up to a simmer on medium heat for five minutes.
  • Turn off the heat and let the jewelry sit in overnight.
  • Place the jewelry in a bowl of warm water the next day.
  • Use a toothbrush to scrub off any dirt gently.
  • Rinse your jewelry thoroughly with cold water and pat dry with a soft cloth so that you do not leave behind any moisture.

Lemon Juice And Salt

Lemon juice works like a natural abrasive without being too harsh on the metal. This method will help clean any dirt from your skin that accumulates on the metal surface.

You can clean your copper jewelry using lemon juice and salt by following the steps below:

  • Mix one tablespoon of salt, one tablespoon of lemon juice, and water in a bowl.
  • Dip your copper jewelry in this mixture and let it sit for about an hour.
  • Use a toothbrush to scrub away dirt or sludge from the corners gently.
  • Rinse the jewelry with warm water and pat dry with a soft cloth before storing it in a cool, dry place.

Saltwater

Salt is another fantastic cleaning agent that works like an abrasive. It helps remove tarnish and stains on various metals, especially copper.

Here's how to use it:

  • Add some water and enough salt to a pan. Heat it on a low flame until the salt gets dissolved.
  • Dip your jewelry into this solution and leave it for a few minutes before scrubbing away any sludge.
  • Rinse your jewelry thoroughly with warm water.
  • Use a lint-free or microfiber cloth to buff the jewelry and bring back its lost shine.

Tomato Ketchup

Surprised at this right? Ketchup is an excellent product for cleaning your copper jewelry without any damage in the long run.

Here's how to use it:

  • Squeeze some ketchup on your copper jewelry until it is completely covered.
  • Rub the jewelry with your fingers, a hard cloth, or a brush until the tarnish disappears.
  • Rinse it in a bowl of warm water.
  • Wipe the jewelry thoroughly and let it air dry before storing

Jewelry Polishing Cloth

One of the easiest ways to clean your cool rings for men or copper jewelry is using a polishing cloth. It helps remove tarnishes and restores the item’s radiance. The cloth gets rid of any dirt or tarnishes that have built up over time.

However, read the instructions on how to use it properly. Before putting on your copper jewelry, wipe it with a clean cloth for the best results.

an abstract jewelry bracelet in a cuff style

Do's And Don’ts Of Cleaning Your Precious Copper Jewelry

Do's

  • If you wear your jewelry pieces frequently, wipe them with plain water now and then to avoid any tarnish or buildup of dirt. This will also help prevent the metal from darkening or getting discolored.
  • Use a soft cotton cloth and some crushed walnut shells to clean your copper jewelry
  • Always wipe off any excess dirt or grime from the jewelry before cleaning. Remember, copper is a delicate metal and should not be treated roughly. -Apply gentle pressure if you want to keep it in good condition.
  • Use a clean toothbrush and gently brush it over the stained or tarnished areas. This is a great way to remove dirt without scratching the metal surface.

Don’ts

  • Do not leave your copper jewelry sitting in water for too long as it can damage the metal and cause the design to wear away.
  • Do not scrub the jewelry with a scouring pad or harsh abrasives.
  • Do not use chemical cleaners that contain chlorine, acid, ammonia, or lead as they can corrode or damage the metal.

The best method to keep your copper jewelry beautiful and shiny is to clean it occasionally with lukewarm, soapy water. Then, dry and polish your jewelry with a soft cloth and store it in a zip-lock plastic bag or jewelry case with anti-tarnish paper

a man wearing a jewelry bracelet with an uneven, rugged design

Jesús  is the founder and designer of JewelryLab. He is the Head of Design and also oversees production, quality control, and precious metal sourcing.

  • DESIGNED & HANDMADE IN BALI 
  • FREE RESIZING FOR EVERY PIECE
  • FREE SHIPPING ON $150+ ORDERS
  • 100% SAFE & SECURE CHECKOUT