I decided to work with copper because of the obvious and beautiful process of oxidization and the endless possibilities and processes that can be used when designing new works for The Woven Dream.
Working with copper has been an interesting and rewarding journey, unlike inert metals copper changes and transforms over time.
Copper has been used in jewellery making for over 10,000 years, this always gets me thinking about the millions of things people across the globe have been handcrafting and creating for so long, my thoughts fuel my creative fire to bring you natural and unique collections made with intent, love and passion.
What to Expect as an Owner of The Woven Dream Copper Jewellery
Copper naturally oxidises when it is exposed to our skin, products we use, air pollution and tap water and oxidisation causes the copper to tarnish. Copper may also cause tarnishing to silver on contact.
Please note copper used on The Woven Dream Products will oxidise, some new pieces look shiny and some have started to oxidise when on the way to you due to the nature of the metal and other materials that have been electroplated to begin with. Some pieces may tarnish faster than others.
We do not use a wax or seal to stop this process as we like to embrace all things natural. To me this is what makes the piece beautiful and as the oxidation progresses each piece develops its own unique antique look.
Caring for your unique piece
There are a number of unique copper pendants and pieces I make at The Woven Dream available to purchase, head over and take a look here.
Slowing Oxidization
If you want your copper to keep its shine for longer you can protect your piece by store in it in a zip lock bag in a dry place, avoid getting it wet and touching it too much.
Cleaning The Woven Dream Copper
Cleaning with White Vinegar
This is probably the quickest and most effective method. Find a soft cloth or tissue, wet it with white vinegar and polish softly. Remember copper is a delicate metal so be gentle.
Cleaning with Lemon and Salt
Use small bowl of lemon juice (enough to cover the piece), add 1/2 a teaspoon of salt and mix. Sit the copper in the solution for 1 minute, remove and wipe down, polish if necessary with a soft dry cloth. Avoid rinsing in tap water.
Cleaning with Baking Soda
Sprinkle your piece with baking soda and polish with a wet cloth, or combine equal parts baking soda, lemon juice and salt to form a paste to polish, rinse with de-mineralised water and polish with a soft dry cloth.
Cleaning with Crystals
Avoid cleaning The Woven Dream Copper Jewellery that has both copper and crystal with lemon as the acidity may damage the stones. Some crystals need special-handling so please get to know your crystal and what it needs. There are many sources that provide information about crystal handling, here's one that may help you:
geology-and-crystal-healing/special-handling
