I combined a 16mm x 10mm Cobalt Blue glass African Trade Bead and Copper beads to make this focal grouping measuring 1 1/2" long. Oh what a beautiful glowing color. This long 31" necklace is also designed with more of the Cobalt Blue 10 x 16mm beads and also gorgeous Cobalt Blue Bohemian Bicone Beads. The beads are connected on a copper chain ending in a handcrafted copper S-Hook. I handcrafted matching dangle earrings using the chain and connecting a Cobalt Bohemian bicone bead at the bottom of each earring. The ear wires are also handcrafted but not of copper, they are made with rose gold filled wire. Gold filled ear wires will not harm your ears. They are thickly, 20%, coated with gold and will last a lifetime. This set is definitely eye-catching with its beautiful color.

COPPER is a reddish gold metal that patinas to a warm brown. The oldest known metal, it was associated with the Greek goddess Aphrodite and her Roman counterpart, Venus. The discovery of copper dates from prehistoric times. There are reports of copper beads dating back to 9000BC found in Iraq. Methods for refining copper from its ores were discovered around 5000BC and a 1000 or so years later it was being used in pottery in North Africa

Keeping copper clean and dry, removing any oil or perspiration helps prevent oxidation. Although it can tarnish over time, copper resists tarnish better than many other jewelry metals (including sterling which turns black). When it does oxidize it takes on a soft brown, antiqued color as it darkens, a much sought after "vintage" look in jewelry. The tarnish on copper can be easily removed if you prefer a bright look. If you do prefer the bright look, keep your copper piece in an air tight bag or jewelry box to prevent tarnish when not wearing. In addition, Copper jewelry is often considered to have healing properties.