A Guide to Different Types of Oxidized Jewelry
Did you know that your jewellery could be more than just a piece of shiny adornment? That’s right — there is so much more to your favourite accessories than meets the eye! Oxidized jewellery, a trend that has been on the rise in recent years, is one such example. Why exactly is this type of jewellery so unique? Well, it all comes down to the materials used to make it. Instead of being dipped directly into dye or left exposed to light (like most other pieces), oxidized pieces are exposed to chemicals and natural elements to change their appearance and properties. The result is a collection of beautiful, vintage-inspired pieces that give off an antiqued vibe without sacrificing aesthetics. Wondering what we mean? Let’s take a look at some common examples of oxidized jewellery and how they are made:
What is Oxidized Jewelry?
Oxidized jewellery is a type of jewellery that has been treated with chemicals to change its appearance. In particular, the pieces are exposed to oxygen and hydrogen, which react with the metal to create a rust-like effect. This produces a unique, antiqued look that is great for vintage-style pieces. Oxidized jewellery is trendy in retro and vintage-themed pieces, but it can be used in any design. It’s a great way to create unique designs and experiment with different materials.
Gold and Silver Coated Jewelry
Gold and silver coated jewellery is made by mixing the desired metal with a cyanide chemical. This chemical is then cooked in a container, which binds the metal to the cyanide. The cyanide is then stored in a container with an activator chemical, which causes it to oxidize. When the cyanide oxidizes, it creates a layer of gold or silver on the surface of the jewellery. Cyanide is a very toxic chemical and requires a lot of safety precautions when handling it. Due to these safety risks, it is best to avoid this type of jewellery if possible.
Blackened Jewelry
Blackened jewellery is made by heating the desired metals in a furnace and exposing them to carbon. This carbon causes a chemical reaction, which creates a layer of carbon on the surface of the jewellery. In addition to carbon, this reaction produces a small amount of elemental silicon, which gives the jewellery a dark grey or brown colour. This type of oxidized jewellery is often done with precious metals like silver and gold since non-precious metals don’t hold up well in the furnace.
Dark Grey/Dark Brown Coated Jewelry
Dark grey or dark brown coated jewellery is made by mixing iron and copper. A chemical is then added to the mix, which causes the iron and copper to oxidize. This creates a layer of elemental silicon, carbon, and iron on the surface of the jewellery. This type of oxidized jewellery is very similar to blackened jewellery, although the amount of carbon is usually higher.
Blue Coated Jewelry
Blue-coated jewellery is made by mixing copper and silver. A blue chemical is then added to the mix, which causes the copper and silver to oxidize. This creates a blue layer of elemental iron and copper on the surface of the jewellery. While blue is a very common colour for oxidized jewellery, there are many other variations. Oxidized jewellery can have any colour imaginable, including pink, yellow, red, and purple.