Patina is a thin film that forms on the surface of metals like copper, brass, and bronze because of exposure to air, .moisture, or chemicals. The photo above is a great example of spontaneous Patina. It is on an old manhole cover I literally stumbled across on a desert hike.
It is completely natural, even that turquoise spot in the center which makes me think there may be several different metals in play here. In jewelry-making, intentionally applied Patina to the surface of the metal can create a weathered, aged or colored finish. This technique, which adds texture, depth and color, can enhance the visual appeal of the jewelry being created
I always start off with a sheet of copper that has been thoroughly cleaned to remove any oil or dirt and with a plan as to what jewelry piece I want to create. Usually, I apply Patina to the whole sheet because different areas will react differently.
I have a variety of chemical solutions that are available to me and that I use. But I have a favorite that allows the patina to develop quickly rather than letting nature take its course.
Different solutions also provide different colors, sometimes lighter or darker turquoise and sometimes more blue than green. As with most chemical reactions, temperature and humidity can affect how the Patina responds to the metal being used.
If I don’t particularly like the effect I have created in my first layer, I may treat it again letting it dry between applications and hoping for a better result. I am never afraid of the process knowing that the excess Patina solution can be removed using rubbing alcohol or acetone.
Once the desired Patina is achieved, I cut the copper into the shapes I need for my designs, hoping I have achieved my vision in terms of color and variation. Before assembling my finished piece, the final step in the process of Patina is the sealing of the metal. There are various ways to seal your jewelry. Some jewelers like wax and lacquer to use as a protective coating or a clear sealant which is what I prefer. I typically will add three coats to the Patina side of the metal as a protectant before I finish the final design.
Artists, myself included, love to work in Patina because of the unique look it gives, particularly to copper. It has a mind of its own and is impossible to duplicate the actual finished product because of the whims of the metal and the chemical reactions.
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