Copper — Cu to you physicists — is a soft, malleable metal in its pure form. It’s a natural conductor of heat and electricity and is highly corrosion resistant. Its use was so widespread and relevant during the period from 3500 to 2300 B.C. that copper has a whole Age named for it. And it served as a catalyst for the highly-significant Bronze Age (bronze and brass both being copper alloys). While copper has proved its industrial worth, it’s also been prized for its aesthetic properties and is even believed to have health benefits. Here’s few more facts about Number 29 on the periodic table.

Copper’s Health Benefits
Since ancient times, copper is believed to have healing properties and health benefits. Even today, some believe that wearing copper bracelets can reduce arthritis pain, increase circulation and energy or even stabilize metabolism.

There is scientific proof backing some health benefits. The Environmental Protection Agency has approved the registration of copper alloys as “antimicrobial material” – meaning that they may inhibit the growth of certain bacteria, fungus and viruses. We also know that our bodies need trace elements of copper for healthy bones, brain, heart and our immune system.

Copper in Art
Copper may have been used for décor even before it was ever used for utilitarian purposes. One of the earliest examples, a copper pendant unearthed in current day Iraq, dates back all the way to 8700 B.C. The Sumerians used sheets of copper to create reliefs that hung on walls and buildings. And the Egyptians used copper, not only for jewelry, but for mirrors and for the glittery cosmetics that are indicative of that era.

Because of its physical properties, Copper is a medium of choice for many crafts people and artisans. Its malleability makes it easy to work with and provides flexibility. Plus, it tends to be a fairly low-cost metal. And its varying patinas can be manipulated to create stunning or unusual effects.

Here are some examples of copper used in art:

Compass Rose Wall Art
American Artist Houston Llew uses a technique of fusing molten glass enamel to copper to create this patina effect.

Copper Watch  and Bracelet
Craftsman Eduardo Millieris demonstrates the versatility of copper in his pieces. Elements of distressed copper, oxidized copper and imprinted copper are patch-worked together in these nature-inspiring pieces. 

Catalpa Leaf Dish
Copper is used on this Michael Michaud silver-plated dish to highlight the intricate veins and stem of the leaf.

Caring for Copper
Copper jewelry and décor is fairly easy to care for and maintain. Some people shy away from copper jewelry for fear it will discolor their skin. This is easily avoidably by simply wiping your jewelry with a soft cloth every time you take it off or put it on. Wiping the jewelry keeps it from oxidizing, which is what may cause the skin discoloration. For a more thorough cleaning, though commercial cleaning products are available, vinegar also works well. Let your jewelry soak for a few minutes in a cup of vinegar and then rinse. Or wipe vinegar across your decorative item and them wipe dry.