A patina is the layer that forms naturally on metals such as copper and bronze when exposed to air over a long period of time. This oxidation actually changes the color of the metal. People like these changes in color so much that they have devised all kinds of ways to hasten the process. Patina jewelry is created by using chemicals to accelerate oxidation. Many products created in this way are available from online stores today.
The process is still an organic one, even if chemicals are used, and no two finishes are exactly the same. Variations in color occur according to the types of chemicals and techniques used. Copper, for example, can vary in color from a warm, light brown to a deep burnt umber. It may even acquire a green finish, like the verdigris effect seen on an old statue in a park.
Blue, blue-green, green, warm browns, reds, black and many more variations of these colors are possible. Liver of Sulfur is used to turn silver to gray or black. A sterling silver pendant with a raised pattern in silver on a black background is eye-catching. Different strengths of the same mixture produce different colors too from blue and purple to yellow and brown. A brilliant blue can be achieved by simply using a household chemical like ammonia. Vinegar and salt can also be used to easily create a verdigris appearance.
Chains and other objects used in creating necklaces, bracelets, earrings and rings are painted, sprayed, immersed or heated to accelerate oxidation. As far back as the Middle Ages, copper was buried amidst dung to hasten the process. Today burying is still used but the mediums are sand, coffee, sawdust, tobacco and cat litter instead of dung. These are soaked with a specific solution to help the process along.
Experimentation is often required to learn how to achieve a particular effect. The result is one-of-a-kind items with great character as even the designer does not always know what effect is going to be obtained. Ready-made chemical solutions are available too that offer effective, tried and tested results.
The range of items available means there are those to suit every possible taste and style. A simple pair of turquoise butterfly earrings, a three layered olive green leaf necklace and a teal colored brass bracelet are just some of these items. There are those more suited to formal wear as well as many suited to more casual occasions.
The designers have to make sure that these pieces are well finished and they are often polished by hand. Sealing is very important as the colors are unstable. If they are left unsealed, they continue to oxidize over time and the color changes. Sealing stops any further oxidation and the color remains the same.
Patinas can create a completely different look and transform a fairly ordinary piece into something spectacular. The look does not appeal to everybody as there are those who love sparkle and shine. However, many do love these iridescent hues and will go out of their way to find special items. Fortunately they can find them at many online sources today and they take advantage of being able to compare items and prices to get the best deals.
The process is still an organic one, even if chemicals are used, and no two finishes are exactly the same. Variations in color occur according to the types of chemicals and techniques used. Copper, for example, can vary in color from a warm, light brown to a deep burnt umber. It may even acquire a green finish, like the verdigris effect seen on an old statue in a park.
Blue, blue-green, green, warm browns, reds, black and many more variations of these colors are possible. Liver of Sulfur is used to turn silver to gray or black. A sterling silver pendant with a raised pattern in silver on a black background is eye-catching. Different strengths of the same mixture produce different colors too from blue and purple to yellow and brown. A brilliant blue can be achieved by simply using a household chemical like ammonia. Vinegar and salt can also be used to easily create a verdigris appearance.
Chains and other objects used in creating necklaces, bracelets, earrings and rings are painted, sprayed, immersed or heated to accelerate oxidation. As far back as the Middle Ages, copper was buried amidst dung to hasten the process. Today burying is still used but the mediums are sand, coffee, sawdust, tobacco and cat litter instead of dung. These are soaked with a specific solution to help the process along.
Experimentation is often required to learn how to achieve a particular effect. The result is one-of-a-kind items with great character as even the designer does not always know what effect is going to be obtained. Ready-made chemical solutions are available too that offer effective, tried and tested results.
The range of items available means there are those to suit every possible taste and style. A simple pair of turquoise butterfly earrings, a three layered olive green leaf necklace and a teal colored brass bracelet are just some of these items. There are those more suited to formal wear as well as many suited to more casual occasions.
The designers have to make sure that these pieces are well finished and they are often polished by hand. Sealing is very important as the colors are unstable. If they are left unsealed, they continue to oxidize over time and the color changes. Sealing stops any further oxidation and the color remains the same.
Patinas can create a completely different look and transform a fairly ordinary piece into something spectacular. The look does not appeal to everybody as there are those who love sparkle and shine. However, many do love these iridescent hues and will go out of their way to find special items. Fortunately they can find them at many online sources today and they take advantage of being able to compare items and prices to get the best deals.
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The finest patina jewelry can be seen on the Web. To view our gallery right now, check out this source http://www.collectibleartwear.com.
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