How should you care for a copper bracelet so that it keeps its look longer?

Copper is a living material: it reacts to moisture, air and the acids in sweat. Darkening and patina are not a defect but the natural behaviour of the metal. If you want to keep a lighter, “fresh” shade, follow a few simple rules.

• Take the bracelet off before contact with water — showering, swimming, washing up. Prolonged contact with water and detergents speeds up oxidation.
• Avoid contact with perfume and creams. Apply cosmetics before putting on the jewellery and let them absorb.
• Wipe the bracelet with a soft dry cloth after wearing it — this removes sweat residue and slows down darkening.
• For cleaning, you can use a mild paste of lemon juice and salt or special copper cleaners — apply, rub gently, rinse and dry thoroughly.
• Store it in a dry place, ideally in a pouch or closed box, to limit contact with air.

If you like the patina, no action is needed. Darkened copper has a character of its own and is valued in Ayurvedic aesthetics no less than shiny copper.