The bronze It has the privilege of having been the first alloy in history created by man and since then we have been using it for more than 3000 years. It is a durable metal that has played an important role in human history. Which is known for its excellent durability and its wide range of uses, including jewelry.
This is how jewelry made of bronze has been used since the metal has existed. And it’s no wonder that this durable metal is still a popular choice for accessory crafting even today. The bronze It has a striking golden brown hue, a soft sheen and an attractive vintage look. Without a doubt, the jewels of this metal are very precious and very popular, especially in some parts of the world.
Nevertheless, the bronze It is not a perfect metal and there are some details that we must know before using bronze jewelry. So, if you are thinking of buying bronze jewelry, we invite you to continue reading, as we have everything you need to know.
What is bronze?
The bronze It is a metallic alloy, which means that it is a combination of metals. Where the main components of bronze are copper (approximately 88%) and tin (approximately 12%). Although other elements that can be added to create the bronze They are aluminum, zinc, nickel, silicon, arsenic and phosphorous.
history of bronze
6,000 years ago, Neolithic man discovered how to work and melt metals. This is how, thanks to the ductility of metals, man began to manufacture various pieces. Among them water containers or tools for specific uses. However, despite having these advantages, copper and gold did not have properties superior to stone, as they were very soft.
This is how approximately 5,500 years ago, in the north of Thailand, this alloy of copper with tin called bronze emerged. But its origin has always generated a question: How did the man of that period know that by combining tin and copper he would obtain a metal with high mechanical properties?
It is believed that the humans of that time did not have basic knowledge of metallurgy or extractive chemistry. Therefore, the answer will always be a mystery. The truth is that, due to its excellent durability and variety of applications, it was widely used in war, construction and industries. But also, the man discovered that it was ideal to create sculptures, musical instruments, coins, medals and jewelry. Thus revolutionizing human life.
The bronze jewels
The bronze It is a versatile metal and the best thing is that it can be adapted to all skin tones. Also, having a warm brown color that goes very well with almost all colors, so we can wear bronze jewelry on almost any occasion.
It is usually converted the bronze in large and striking pieces, providing a charming vintage style, a bit rustic. Plus, because of its warm earthy hue, it pairs well with a wide variety of gemstones, and can also be paired with other colored metals for a modern look.
Likewise, in well-carved jewels the bronze It takes on a stunning, beautiful and delicate look. Such is the case with ethnic and traditional bronze jewelry from India, South America, Africa and the Middle East. Likewise, many Victorian designs and Steampunk jewelry have been created from bronze.
tarnishing of bronze
Despite being a very durable and strong material, the bronze it is not as flexible as copper. But beautiful and strong pieces can be made with it. However, due to its copper content, when exposed to air and moisture, it loses its shine, tarnishes and develops a green patina. This is because copper oxidizes when it reacts with moisture and air.
Sometimes this patina is preserved, but it can add a beautiful, vintage look to jewelry made from this metal. Although many people prefer brass jewelry to be clean and shiny and remove the patina. Something that is not difficult to do, since some homemade ingredients can be used, in addition to the fact that it does not require much effort.
Health benefits
The bronze It mainly contains copper in its composition, so when used in jewelry it can help by slightly increasing the level of copper in the body. Since the skin is able to absorb small amounts of copper through the metal. Likewise, it is also believed to help in the treatment of arthritis, rheumatism and joint pain, among others.
However, if we use a sealant on bronze jewelry, the skin will not come into contact with the metal and will not be able to interact with it either. Which will prevent us from absorbing the copper.
Disadvantages associated with the use of bronze jewelry
Allergies to brass and nickel
Bronze jewelry is contraindicated for people who are allergic to nickel. A condition that is estimated to be suffered by 6% of people. Whose symptoms are red eyes, itchy skin, rashes, skin discoloration and even blisters.
Therefore, if you have a severe allergy to nickel, you should avoid wearing any jewelry made from nickel-containing alloys. But, if instead there is a mild reaction, you can choose to wear jewelry made of sealed or lacquered bronze to prevent reactions.
Green skin
Due to the reaction of copper with sweat and body oils, copper chelates can be created that are absorbed through the skin. And that in excess can cause discoloration of the skin where it touches the metal, causing it to acquire a green hue.
But it is important to know that this green discoloration is not harmful to our skin, nor is it permanent. Since it can be easily removed if we wash with soap and water. Therefore, it is recommended that bronze jewelry be kept clean, so that this does not happen.
A fairly simple technique for sealing bronze jewelry is to apply nail polish to the jewelry. Although car wax or a commercial sealant can also be used for this purpose. The thin layer that forms will create a barrier between the skin and the metal, preventing it from turning green.
Jewelry cleaning and care
- When your bronze jewelry is dirty, wash it with lukewarm water and neutral soap, and then remove it with a cloth before storing it.
- Every time you take them off, you can use a jewelry polishing cloth, which will help clean any dust or dirt on the jewelry.
- In the case of jewelry that has developed a green patina, it can be cleaned at home and returned to its original shine. We should only use a mixture of two tablespoons of baking soda and a little lemon juice. We will apply it to the jewel, and then rub gently until it comes out completely. Let stand for 25 minutes and remove with warm water to avoid residue, then dry with a clean cloth.
- Never use commercial cleaners as they can be abrasive and scratch the surface of the jewelry.
- Use wax or polish if you want your brass jewelry to stay bright and shiny for years to come.