Skip to content
Old Coach Road
Old Coach Road
WhatsApp @old_coach_road

Care

Caring for brass, copper and silver

Brass and copper darken over time. Regular cleaning keeps them bright, or you can let them darken. This page explains how to clean and store brass, copper and silver.

Copper rings on a pewter platter and hammered copper cuffs

Brass

Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc. It darkens with air and handling, and this darker colour is called patina. Some people like the patina and some prefer bright brass.

  1. 1Wipe with a soft dry cloth after wearing.
  2. 2For a quick clean, wash in warm water with a little mild soap and dry well.
  3. 3To bring back the shine, dip half a lemon in salt and rub gently, then rinse and buff dry.
  4. 4Do not use silver polish or silver cloths on brass.
  5. 5Store dry, in a closed pouch or box, away from the bathroom.

Copper

Copper turns a deeper rose and then brown as it ages, and in time can show green. Clean it the same way as brass.

  1. 1Wipe after wearing and keep dry.
  2. 2Lemon and salt, or a paste of lemon juice and bicarbonate of soda, brings back the shine. Rinse and dry well.
  3. 3Take copper off for swimming and showering.

Silver

Sterling and fine silver tarnish more slowly than brass. Fine silver (999) is soft, so it will pick up small marks with wear.

  1. 1Polish with a silver cloth.
  2. 2Store in a closed pouch with a strip of chalk or a silica sachet to slow tarnish.
  3. 3Keep away from bleach and swimming pools.

01Questions

Questions we are often asked

Why has my ring left a green mark on my finger?

Copper in brass and copper jewellery reacts with sweat, lotions and soap and can leave a faint green mark. It is harmless and washes off with soap and water. Keeping the inside of the ring clean and dry helps, and a thin coat of clear nail varnish inside the band stops it for a few weeks at a time.

Will my brass go dark?

Yes, slowly. Brass darkens with air and touch. Lemon and salt brings back the shine in a minute, or you can leave the patina; many people prefer it.

Is brass safe for sensitive skin?

Most people wear brass without any trouble. Brass can contain traces of nickel, so if you react to nickel, ask us about sterling silver or fine silver versions.

Can I reserve a piece without coming in?

Yes. Tap "Reserve on WhatsApp" on any piece, or add a few to your list and send them in one message. We will confirm that the pieces are here and put them aside for you.

Do you post or deliver?

We can arrange courier delivery within South Africa. Ask when you reserve and we will quote the cost for your area.

How do I pay?

In the gallery, or by EFT when we post a piece to you. We will send the details when we confirm your reservation.

Can you make a ring in my size?

Usually, yes. Most of our rings are made in the Atelier next door, so we can make one to size. Tell us your size, or come in and we will measure your finger.

Are the prices on the website up to date?

We keep them up to date, and every price is confirmed when you reserve. Gallery pieces by other makers can sell quickly, so ask us if you want a particular piece.

WhatsApp us

Reserve

Your enquiry list

Your list is empty. Tap "Add to list" on any piece you would like us to put aside, then send the list to us in one message.

Browse the gallery