I cleaned a thick copper bracelet I have with salt and lemon juice, based on what I read on the web. I then washed the solution off with soapy water. Not only did it oxidize with a vengeance, but now there is a whitish, rainbowish tone on certain areas of the bracelet.Why did this whitish tone get on the copper? How do I get rid of it and clean the copper corectly.I would appreciate informed answers only, from people who have actually USED the method they are suggesting... I can do a web search myself, I need to hear people's experience!
use duraglit.. s well for me...
you should be able to find BRASSO in your local grocery store in the cleaning products section. wash with warm soapy water when you finish, and rinse with clean water thoroughly.
Pure copper, as it comes out of the tank, is actually an odd, almost pink, colour. The familiar tone only appears after it has been exposed to air, particularly during the polishing process. Organic acids, lemon juice or vinegar, are great for getting rid of the typical green/black corrosion products, but not for giving you the finish you want. The only success I've had was by using vinegar, washing it of under the tap, drying it as quickly as possible and then using a commercial metal polish. Even then, it is hard work to get a good finish and unless you are prepared to lacquer it, you need to wait a day or two before you see the end result.
