How to Make Patinaed Copper Jewelry

Give copper jewelry a patina with eggs.

While bright, shiny copper jewelry may complement some styles, you may prefer lightly-tarnished, vintage copper. Not only does patina copper give your accessories a warmer, old-world appearance, it never requires cleaning. If you want a patina on your copper pieces, there's never any reason to polish it off. Giving your copper jewelry a patina on purpose doesn't just warm up your collection, it also eliminates one of your household chores. Fortunately, turning shiny copper dull and beautiful takes little time or effort.

Things You'll Need

• Saucepan
• Water
• Salt
• Eggs
• Jewelry cleaner
• Copper jewelry
• Soft cloth
• Collander
• Plastic container

Instructions

1. Fill a saucepan about half-full of water and sprinkle in 1 tbsp. salt. Bring the water to a boil over high heat.

2. Add five eggs to the boiling water. Bring the water back to a boil, then turn the heat down to medium-high. Allow the eggs to simmer for 15 minutes.

3. Apply a little jewelry cleaner to your copper jewelry while the eggs boil. Polish the jewelry with a soft cloth. This removes dirt and oil that might prevent your jewelry from getting an even patina.

4. Drain the eggs with a colander and break one of them open. Place the halved egg into a small plastic container with your copper jewelry. Replace the lid to the container loosely, and let the container sit overnight. The next day, all of your jewelry will have a rustic sheen.

Tips & Warnings

• Since you risk seriously overcooking your egg if you try to boil just one, always boil three to five eggs at time. Use the leftover eggs for egg salad, or pop them into lunches with a little packet of salt for a snack.

References

• Beading Gem: 8 Ways to Patina Jewelry
• Jem Library: How to Antique Copper