How to Antique Copper Jewelry

You can give your copper jewelry a weathered, antique look.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Copper Nitrate 4 ozs.
• Ammonium Chloride 4 ozs.
• Calcium Chloride 4 ozs.
• Water 1 Gallon
• Safety Glasses
• Thick Rubber Gloves
• A bucket or pail
• Tongs
• Stack of newspapers

1. The charming greenish, antique look that copper has is called its' "patina". It is actually a form of copper carbonate that occurs when the metal has been outside and "weathered" for a long time. But this effect can be reproduced chemically.

2. A metal finishing and plating shop may be willing to patina your copper jewelry, or you can attempt the process at home. Remember that all chemicals should be handled carefully, and you should always use full protective gear.

3. *Be sure to always handle chemicals outdoors or in a very well ventilated area!!
   
   This is the chemical formula:
   
   Copper Nitrate 4 ozs.
   Ammonium Chloride 4 ozs.
   Calcium Chloride 4 ozs.
   Water 1 Gallon

4. Mix chemicals and water in a 5 gallon bucket or pail.
   One piece of jewelry at a time should be immersed, then removed from the solution with tongs.
   Set the jewelry on a thick layer of newspapers and allow the solution to dry on.
   
   Repeat the entire process.
   
   Set jewelry aside for 24 hours, then rinse with plain, cool water before wearing.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't forget your safety glasses and gloves!
• If you don't have appropriate safety gear, hire a professional metal plating/finishing shop to patina your copper.
• Always wear proper protective gear, including gloves and eye wear.
• Always handle chemicals outdoors or in a well ventilated area.
• Try the mixture on one piece of jewelry first.
• Chemically treat one piece of jewelry at a time.