Oxidized brass

How do I get that gorgeous brown patina on copper or brass?

There are actually several ways to get that gorgeous brown patina on your copper or brass. You can use chemicals or more eco-friendly methods. Some chemicals can be caustic and must be used with care. One chemical that I use is household clear ammonia. Ammonia works on Copper and Brass. One of the eco-friendly methods I use for Copper (and Sterling Silver) is hard boiled eggs. Then of course there are the more common chemicals such as Liver of Sulphur, Black Max (which contains hydrochloric acid and tellurium), and an antique solution that contains iron nitrate.

An Eco-friendly way to oxidize/patina Copper and Sterling Silver

A safe and eco-friendly oxidization process can be accomplished in about 4 - 6 hours. Here is what you need:

2 - 3 Hard Boiled Eggs ( at least 5 minutes, the yoke should be solid)

Small shallow dish to place your metal, jewelry pieces on

Plastic container with a tight fitting lid or Ziploc Bag that the small dish will easily fit inside with more than enough room for the hard boiled eggs.

Chop the two or three hard boiled eggs. Place your metal or jewelry pieces on the small dish. Add the chopped hard boiled egg to the plastic container or Ziploc bag. Place the small dish in the middle of the plastic container or inside the Ziploc Bag. The egg should not touch the metal or jewelry pieces. Cover with the lid or close the Ziploc Bag. Leave it alone! You will be tempted to look but don't! Using a Ziploc bag or a clear plastic container will help with this. You can open the container or Ziploc bag when the metal or jewelry pieces darken to the color you want. Throw away the eggs and shine your piece leaving some of the detail oxidized.