Working with metals like copper makes you curious about some strange things…

• How was sterling silver invented and who decided the 925 rule?
• Who developed the terms karat for gold but carat for gemstones?
• And what is the easiest way to clean my metals?

Well the answer to the cleaning question very much depends on the metal itself. So over the next few posts I’ll share my tried and tested tricks for keeping your metal jewellery bright and shiny.

First Up : Copper

Incredibly the easiest and quickest way I’ve found to clean copper is plain lemon juice.

Yep, a little lemon juice in a plastic container, soak the metal for around 30 seconds making sure it is fully submerged. Then rinse with clean water. Sparkly jewellery every time. Note : lemon juice doesn’t react with sterling silver but be wary of plated metals.

To make the shine last a little longer, add a coat of any clear wax, beeswax or clear furniture polish. Apply using a soft cloth and buff to a shiny finish.

Check out Cleaning Silver and Cleaning Brass

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