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The Beauty Of Patina Jewelry

By Roseann Hudson


A shift in the color of the surface of metals like brass, copper or bronze develops when it is exposed to the air. This process is called oxidation and it happens over time. However, the same result can be achieved more quickly. Patina jewelry is often created by using chemicals and necklaces, bracelets, rings and earrings treated in this way are available from many online stores today.

The delightful aspect of the oxidation process is that the colors produced vary greatly depending on which metal, technique or chemical is used. This creates one-of-a-kind items in many different colors, from a light turquoise to a deep umber. Even a verdigris finish like that on an old statues offers inspiration for items of jewelry such as a bronze verdigris coin on a chain.

Warm brown, red, blue, green-blue, black and many other colors can be created depending on which processes and chemicals are used. Silver turns to black or gray when a liver of Sulfur is used but yellow, reddish brown, blue and purple colors are also possible by using different strengths of the mixture. Household chemicals like vinegar and ammonia can also be used and vinegar turns copper green while ammonia turns it blue.

Chains and other objects used in creating necklaces, bracelets, earrings and rings are painted, sprayed, immersed or heated to accelerate oxidation. As far back as the Middle Ages, copper was buried amidst dung to hasten the process. Today burying is still used but the mediums are sand, coffee, sawdust, tobacco and cat litter instead of dung. These are soaked with a specific solution to help the process along.

Experimentation is often required to learn how to achieve a particular effect. The result is one-of-a-kind items with great character as even the designer does not always know what effect is going to be obtained. Ready-made chemical solutions are available too that offer effective, tried and tested results.

A wide variety of different items are created by designers today, combining unique finishes and artisan shapes. Upscale organic looking items are created such as a pair of brass butterfly earrings with even the ear wires are made of oxidized sterling silver. A pair of simple golden, brass birds sitting on silvery flowers are set off with a teal colored brass chain. Necklaces come in all sorts of styles, from an olive green three layer leaf necklace to a a turquoise cross pendant on a copper chain.

The designers have to make sure that these pieces are well finished and they are often polished by hand. Sealing is very important as the colors are unstable. If they are left unsealed, they continue to oxidize over time and the color changes. Sealing stops any further oxidation and the color remains the same.

Patinas are effective in changing the look of items altogether. Jewelry is often given a whole new character by adding this dimension. Purchasing these items online offers access to a wide variety of styles and colors. As long as a reputable supplier is selected, this way of shopping can save time and money.




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