Copper and Brass in Jewelry: What You Should Know

Copper and Brass in Jewelry: An Honest Assessment

Copper and brass jewelry is ubiquitous – at craft markets, online, and in affordable fashion jewelry. What is its real value, and when is it a good choice?

Copper in Jewelry

• Warm, reddish-orange metal – oxidizes green (patina)
• Very inexpensive – often used in handcrafted pieces
• Can turn skin green due to oxidation (Harmless, but undesirable)
• Traditionally considered a healing metal in many cultures

Brass in Jewelry

• Copper-zinc alloy – gold-colored and shiny
• Very inexpensive and common in fashion jewelry
• Can also stain skin and cause allergic reactions
• Tarnishes and requires regular care

When is Copper/Brass OK?

• Artistic, handcrafted unique pieces with intentional character
• Seasonal fashion jewelry without a long-term claim
• Ethnic and folk jewelry as a cultural object

What to Avoid

• Gold-plated brass sold as "gold jewelry" – deception
• Daily wear with sensitive skin
• For earrings – direct contact with piercings can cause reactions

For skin-friendly, genuine jewelry: corelunejewellery.de – 925 sterling silver and 585 gold, clearly hallmarked.