My first choice of metal....

Many years ago when I first started metalsmithing I would use copper.  Why you might ask?  Well there is the obvious, price.  I could purchase a huge sheet of copper for practically nothing, but what I found out along the way was a few other things.

Copper has the perfect rosey tone without the cost.  It is sometimes mistaken for rose gold fill, not quite as pink of course, but for someone not paying close attention, they may not notice.

The patina of copper is quite pretty.  You can of course add your own or the one that it develops on its own over time is also quite nice, and with a little polishing you can bring out the copper and leave the patina, quite pretty.

The last reason is that it is easy to work with.  You can get it in all gauges, there is solder that can be used on copper, and you can make beautiful jewelry for none of the cost.  Great way to break into jewelry metalsmithing, without breaking the bank!!

#metalsmithing #rosegilleydesigns #jewelry #copper