The Appeal Of Patina Jewelry

By Roseann Hudson


A patina is the layer that forms naturally on metals such as copper and bronze when exposed to air over a long period of time. This oxidation actually changes the color of the metal. People like these changes in color so much that they have devised all kinds of ways to hasten the process. Patina jewelry is created by using chemicals to accelerate oxidation. Many products created in this way are available from 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.

There are many different methods used by designers to hasten the oxidization process. Immersion, spraying, painting and heating are just some of the ways used to create these effects. A method used in the Middle Ages was to bury copper in dung to hasten the color change. The method of burying is still used today but items are now buried in sawdust, sand, coffee, cotton wool and many other mediums which are saturated with a particular solution.

Designers often experiment to achieve a specific effect. The items they produce are unique and creative, adding one-of-a-kind appeal to an outfit. Chemical mixes are also available for purchase today that have already been proved to achieve specific results.

The range of items available means there are those to suit every possible taste and style. A simple pair of turquoise butterfly earrings, a three layered olive green leaf necklace and a teal colored brass bracelet are just some of these items. There are those more suited to formal wear as well as many suited to more casual occasions.

It is important to make sure that these items are properly finished. Some of the colors are not stable and they continue to oxidize over time, darkening the color. Professional sealing is necessary to prevent this from happening and to make sure that the item is durable.

Patinas can create a completely different look and transform a fairly ordinary piece into something spectacular. The look does not appeal to everybody as there are those who love sparkle and shine. However, many do love these iridescent hues and will go out of their way to find special items. Fortunately they can find them at many online sources today and they take advantage of being able to compare items and prices to get the best deals.




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