Copper Jewelry Guide: Why It Won’t Turn Your Skin Green, and How to Care for It

Copper is one of the oldest metals used in jewelry, and it is easy to see why: its warm, rosy glow looks beautiful on every skin tone and pairs wonderfully with stones like lapis lazuli and turquoise. But many people hesitate to buy copper jewelry because they have heard it can turn the skin green. Here is the truth, and why our copper pieces are different.

A metal with a long history

Copper was one of the first metals people learned to work, more than 9,000 years ago. In the Andes, metalsmiths shaped copper into ornaments, tools and ceremonial objects long before the Inca, often combining it with gold and silver. Today Chile is the largest copper producer in the world, and copper remains a proud part of Andean craftsmanship.

Why does raw copper turn skin green?

Bare copper reacts with its surroundings. When it comes into contact with sweat, lotions, perfume, water or simply the oils on your skin, it slowly oxidizes. This forms a thin layer of copper compounds, which can leave a green or dark mark on the skin and makes the metal itself darken over time, the same process that gives old copper roofs and the Statue of Liberty their green color.

The mark is harmless and washes off with soap and water, but it is not something most people want on their wrist or earlobes.

Why our copper jewelry keeps its color

All of our copper jewelry is protected with a clear enamel coating. This invisible layer seals the copper so it does not come into direct contact with your skin, sweat or the air. The result:

• No green marks on your skin.
• No darkening: your piece keeps its gorgeous copper color and shine.
• No polishing needed to bring back the glow.

You get all the warmth and beauty of copper, without the usual drawbacks.

How to care for enamel-protected copper

A few simple habits keep the coating, and your jewelry, looking new for years:

• Clean gently. Wipe your piece with a soft, dry or slightly damp cloth after wearing it.
• Do not use copper polish, abrasive cleaners or lemon and salt. These traditional tricks are meant for bare copper and would wear away the protective enamel.
• Put your jewelry on last. Apply perfume, hairspray and lotions first, let them dry, then put on your copper pieces.
• Take it off for water activities. Remove it before swimming, showering, doing the dishes or exercising, and avoid chlorine and household chemicals.
• Store it separately. Keep each piece in a soft pouch or a lined jewelry box so it does not get scratched by other jewelry.

Copper cuffs and mesh bracelets: one size that fits you

Our copper cuffs and mesh bracelets come in a single size, and you can shape them to your own wrist because copper is a soft, malleable metal. Read our guide to sizing and adjusting copper bracelets for step-by-step instructions.

About magnetic copper bracelets

Magnetic copper bracelets combine copper with small magnets set into the ends or along the band. Copper and magnetic bracelets have been worn for generations as a traditional wellness accessory, and many people simply love their look and feel. One important note: if you have a pacemaker or another implanted medical device, check with your doctor before wearing any magnetic jewelry.

Browse our magnetic copper bracelets, from the classic magnetic copper cuff to the magnetic copper and turquoise bracelet.

How to wear copper jewelry

• Copper and blue: copper’s warm tone is stunning next to deep blue lapis lazuli. See our Killa llama earrings, Aveline tree of life earrings and the rest of our copper and lapis lazuli earrings.
• Mix your metals: copper looks modern stacked with silver or gold.
• Earth tones: copper is perfect with camel, brown, cream, green and burgundy, the same colors as many of our alpaca scarves and wraps.
• Make a set: pair a copper mesh necklace with its matching bracelet and earrings for a polished look.

Shop copper jewelry

Discover all our copper jewelry, including copper bracelets, earrings and necklaces. Copper jewelry also makes a lovely gift: see more ideas in our holiday gift guide.