Bronze 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 jewellery.

El bronce Joya de bronce Joyería Cadena Bronze
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This is how jewellery made of bronze has been in use since the metal existed. And it is no wonder that even today this durable metal remains a popular choice for accessory making. Bronze has a striking golden brown hue, low sheen, and an appealing vintage look. Without a doubt, this metal jewellery is very precious and very popular, especially in some parts of the world.

However, bronze is not a perfect metal and there are some details that we must know before wearing bronze jewellery. So if you are thinking of buying bronze jewellery, we invite you to read on, as we have everything you need to know.

What is bronze?

Bronze 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 bronze are aluminium, zinc, nickel, silicon, arsenic and phosphorus.

Bronze history

6,000 years ago, Neolithic man discovered how to work and melt metals. Thus, thanks to the ductility of metals, man began to manufacture various pieces. Among them water containers or tools for specific uses. However, copper and gold, despite having these advantages, did not have superior properties to stone, as they were very soft.

Thus, approximately 5,500 years ago, in northern Thailand, this copper-tin alloy 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 humans at that time had no 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 warfare, construction and industries. But also, the man discovered that it was ideal to create sculptures, musical instruments, coins, medals and jewellery. Thus revolutionizing human life.

Bronze jewellery

Bronze is a versatile metal and the best part is that it can be adapted to all skin tones. In addition, having a warm brown colour that combines very well with almost all colours, so we can wear bronze jewellery on almost any occasion.

Bronze is usually converted into large and striking pieces, providing a charming vintage style, a bit rustic. In addition, due to its warm earthy tone, it pairs well with a wide variety of gemstones and can also be combined with other coloured metals for a modern look.

Similarly, in well-carved jewellery, bronze takes on an impressive, beautiful and delicate appearance. Such is the case with ethnic and traditional bronze jewellery from India, South America, Africa and the Middle East. Also, many Victorian designs and Steampunk jewellery that have been created from bronze.

Fogging of bronze

Despite being a very durable and strong material, bronze is not as flexible as copper. But you can make beautiful and resistant pieces with it. However, due to its copper content, when it is exposed to air and humidity, it loses its shine, tarnishes and develops a green patina. This is because copper oxidizes when reacting with moisture and air.

Sometimes this patina is preserved, but it can add a beautiful, vintage look to jewellery made of this metal. Although many people prefer clean and shiny bronze jewellery and remove the patina. Something that is not difficult to do, since you can use some homemade ingredients, plus it does not require great effort.

Health benefits

Bronze contains mainly copper in its composition, so when used in jewellery 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 jewellery, the skin will not have contact with the metal and will not be able to interact with it. Which will prevent us from absorbing the copper.

Disadvantages associated with the use of bronze jewellery

Allergies to bronze and nickel

Bronze jewellery is contraindicated for people with a nickel allergy. A condition that is estimated to be suffered by 6% of people. The symptoms of which 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 jewellery made from alloys that contain nickel. But, if instead there is a mild reaction, you can choose to wear jewellery 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 tone.

But it should be known 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 jewellery be kept clean, so that this does not happen.

A fairly simple technique for sealing bronze jewellery is to apply nail polish to the jewellery. 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.

Jewellery cleaning and care

  • When your bronze jewellery is dirty, wash it with warm water and mild soap, then dry it with a cloth before putting it away.
  • Each time you remove them, you can use a jewellery polishing cloth, which will help clean dust or dirt from the jewellery.
  • In the case of jewels that have developed a green patina, they can be cleaned at home and returned to their 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, to then rub gently until it comes out completely. Let it rest for 25 minutes and remove with warm water to avoid residues, then dry with a clean cloth.
  • Never use commercial cleaners as they can be abrasive and scratch the surface of the jewellery.
  • Use wax or enamel if you want your bronze jewellery to stay shiny for many years.

ALFA