Hammered Copper Earrings - Deal-of-the-Month

• Measures approximately 3" L x 1-1/4" W
• Sterling Silver French Earwires, for pierced ears only
• Protective coating applied to copper to resist tarnish.
• Gift Boxed.

  February 2010 - Issue #34 - "Copper in the Arts," on Copper.org features contemporary copper jewelry designs by jewelry designer John S. Brana.  Contributing writer Rebecca Troutman discusses the allure of John S. Brana’s copper jewelry designs…“Brana loves to feature nontraditional metals, his most recent collection thrusting copper and aluminum in the spotlight. His designs are flirtatious and intricate, often with elegant geometric textural elements and clean curves.

His new line, named after the South of Market district, “SoMa,” is inspired by the curved angles of the architecture and the “opulent gold rush period” of its heyday. Not many other jewelry designers value the unique abilities of copper the way Brana does. In a contemporary jewelry industry founded on the classic value of semi-precious metals and gemstones, his choice of materials like copper, bronze and aluminum is giving a new sheen to the high end jewelry industry. “  Read the entire story on Copper.org 

Muir Woods Copper Jewelry Collection

Karri Ann Frerichs, Altitude Promotions, interviews jewelry designer John S. Brana about his latest patinated handmade copper jewelry collection Muir Woods. See one-of-a-kind copper earrings in a variety of earth-tone colors, including hand-sculpted bronze tree-branch rings set with semi-precious faceted colored gemstones.

Handmade Copper Jewelry Collection

Karri Ann Frerichs, Altitude Designers, introduces handmade copper jewelry by jewelry designer John S. Brana at Bloomingdale's - Stanford. Selections include handmade corrugated and texturized copper cuffs, corrugated and chased copper earrings, chased and hammered copper necklaces, and bronze rings set with cabochons, beaded gemstones, or faceted large gemstones.

Audio Transcript of handmade Copper Jewelry collection by San Francisco jewelry designer John S. Brana:

Here at Bloomingdale’s Stanford with John S. Brana jewelry trunk show, we have a series of these this holiday 2009 shopping season.  I'm going to talk to you about our copper jewelry collection.  John S. Brana is very well known for his copper collections.  They are gorgeous because they have that beautiful rose color that looks good on all skin tones and it looks really great with monochromatic ensembles and anyone that has blond hair to brunette hair to really dark hair. 

Copper really stands out very well.  John does a lot of structural architectural shaping with his jewelry.  You can see corrugated styles in the leaf shapes, which are all handcrafted.  He also does a lot of fold formed shapes, like the copper earrings in the middle. Then this one I love…very intricate, tiny corrugation that he uses.  Up here, we have chasing in these circles earrings, and finally texturized copper earrings.

Make a statement in whatever you wear with a focal piece of copper jewelry. When new and unfinished, it can present as pink and shiny as rose gold. Over time, copper tends to darken, developing a beautiful warm brown patina. Due to its unique luster and health benefits, copper jewelry is a favorite element used by jewelry designers. Copper is often made into necklaces, rings, earrings, and bracelets that accentuate nearly any ensemble. Copper jewelry can be shaped, textured, or enhanced with a multitude of creative designs to serve as an eye-catching accessory.

Copper Jewelry - A Brief History

Health Benefits of Wearing Copper Jewelry

Copper is a well-known metal for its array of health benefits, used holistically by the ancient Aztecs and Egyptians. While little scientific proof has been found regarding the health benefits of copper, much research has been performed to determine the link between wearing copper jewelry and the relief it tends to bring arthritis patients.

Copper Jewelry Designs

Copper jewelry is a malleable material, meaning it’s relatively easy to bend and mold into a variety of shapes. Various thicknesses and lengths can be achieved using copper to create beautiful pieces of jewelry. Copper slabs can be hammered, pounded, rough-edged or extruded through machines to result in different types of looks. Earrings, charm bracelets, cuffs, carved rings, brooches, and chokers are just a few of the favorable jewelry styles that can be made from copper. Copper jewelry can also be accented with other types of metals, including silver or nickel plating. Many jewelry designers use gemstones, beads, texturizing, or engraving to form designs in the metal.

Copper Jewelry Care

Copper jewelry should be cleaned on occasion to prevent it from becoming dirty or dingy. Frequent cleaning will primarily depend on how often the piece is worn. Cleaning copper jewelry is a straight-forward process. A solution of warm water and several drops of mild soap should be mixed together in a dish. A soft rag can be used to clean the exterior of the jewelry. Rinse the piece with warm water and dry with a soft cloth.

Copper jewelry should also be polished if you wish to maintain its pink hue and natural shine. Polishing should be performed every time that you notice the piece becoming darker. To polish copper jewelry, dip a soft cloth into fresh lemon juice and wipe the piece of jewelry in small, circular motions. This will help to eliminate developing patina. Once the piece of copper jewelry is polished, it should be thoroughly rinsed with clean water. Allow the piece to completely dry before attempting to wear it. Copper jewelry polishing cloths and cleaners can also be purchased at most jewelry stores. They work equally as well, and are a great alternative to fresh lemon juice.

Copper jewelry should be stored properly to maintain its shape and color. It should be kept in a plastic zip-lock bag to prevent air from tarnishing the piece. If you prefer, leave it in a jewelry box so that it can gradually develop a lustrous patina. Do not allow copper jewelry to sit outdoors, in water, or in extreme temperatures.

Copper jewelry is a highly unique form of decorative accessory that many people, both men and women, are leaning towards in the way of popular trends. It tends to stand out more than traditional silver or gold, and its rich bronze hue can be found in the form of necklaces, bracelets, rings, brooches, and earrings. If you’re in need of a fashion-savvy accessory, copper jewelry can pull off a chic and trendy look.

Click this Link to Browse More Fashionable Handmade Jewelry