|
Post by wigglinrocks on Jul 7, 2019 21:59:49 GMT -5
I'm finally getting around to working on some self picked UP copper ore . Plans are for pendants and a few other things . One got semi finished this weekend , I'll show ya when it is done . I'm looking for some ideas to keep the copper all bright and shiny . Thanks in advance
|
|
|
Post by hummingbirdstones on Jul 7, 2019 22:02:56 GMT -5
The two I can think of off the top of my head are spraying them with a clear coat or (my favorite) Renaissance Wax. Neither are permanent. They will eventually wear off, but it should take a while depending on how often the pieces are worn.
|
|
Deleted
Deleted Member
Member since January 1970
Posts: 0
|
Post by Deleted on Jul 7, 2019 22:40:08 GMT -5
There is no permanent way to protect raw copper from tarnishing, short of using a tarnish-resistant copper brass alloy instead of straight copper.
I'd tend to go with wax over clear coats, as once the clear coat cracks or wears through, it can be difficult to correct the resulting splotchy appearance.
An alternative would be to patinate, either by heat or chemical, though you'd still want seal it with wax to keep the finish from further oxidation (at least for a while). You can get a nice, mottled finish in various colors (blues, reds, purples, golds, etc.) of oxidation that looks more colorful than most tarnish just from wearing, and tends to disguise new tarnish. Aside from Renaissance and similar sealers used by jewelers, you could also just go with a hard-shell car wax (cheaper). Wax is simple enough to reapply, and remove if unwanted.
Copper's something that changes over time, and I think that's part of its charm for many folks. Those who really want the raw copper look need be prepared to clean it regularly to maintain that look, which is usually not that difficult.
|
|
|
Post by hummingbirdstones on Jul 7, 2019 22:50:19 GMT -5
Also, storing them in a ziploc bag with an anti-tarnish strip would help to keep the oxidation at bay.
|
|
|
Post by greig on Jul 8, 2019 5:26:37 GMT -5
While you cannot stop natural copper from oxidizing (and the above ideas are excellent), another way to slow it down is a thin coating of linseed or mineral oil.
|
|
|
Post by Pat on Jul 8, 2019 5:49:33 GMT -5
Use Permalac NT. DON’T use their original formula. You need the NT.
|
|
|
Post by Pat on Jul 8, 2019 5:49:48 GMT -5
Use Permalac NT. DON’T use their original formula. You need the NT.
|
|
Don
Cave Dweller
He wants you too, Malachi.
Member since December 2009
Posts: 2,616
|
Post by Don on Jul 8, 2019 9:39:10 GMT -5
I'm in the let it age and polish when desired camp.
|
|
|
Post by wigglinrocks on Jul 8, 2019 21:26:54 GMT -5
Thank you all for your input and suggestions . Doing a little research , someone said mop n glo floor wax works great also , wonder if it would be a harder finish than car wax . Think I will try the car wax . Some of the ore has fairly good size splotches of copper and others are just the wire copper that would be just little brown specs if left to tarnish .
|
|
|
Post by fernwood on Jul 9, 2019 7:47:54 GMT -5
Here is a copper ore copper crocheted wrap pendant I did in October of 2018. Do not think the cab was treated with anything. I have stored it in my general box of cabs/pendants with no special treatment. The box is a several tier jewelry box from the 1960's. Has velour lined compartments. My house has high humidity in Summer. Never thought that the copper might tarnish. It has been displayed at several shows, one with high humidity. Still looks great. I might be thinking about ways to prevent tarnish if I see any signs of it happening.
|
|
|
Post by rockjunquie on Jul 9, 2019 9:07:13 GMT -5
I have never treated any metallic stone. Whenever it starts to look dull, I just take my Sunshine polishing cloth to it real quick. I also store in 2x3 plastic baggies.
|
|