Artifact Research by Gary Madden

Posts Tagged ‘Copper’

Copper was discovered over 10,000 years ago, according to some sources. Copper artifacts from the ancient Babylonian civilizations date back to 8700 BC. In fact, this particular item – a copper pendant – predates the earliest gold jewelry by about 4700 years! Other sources claim that copper discovery is much more recent – about 6000 years ago, and in Egypt. While the initial uses of copper were limited to crude tools and implements, the beauty of this warm rose colored metal was not lost on the inhabitants of the ancient worlds, and copper jewelry was soon born. Ancient Egyptians wore copper ornaments and jewelry as a mark of high status in society. Greek civilizations of old developed techniques to smelt copper ore and form ingots on Crete. In more recent times, the copper jewelry from the 50s is particularly striking and beautiful. The love affair with copper jewelry continues today. The warm red hues of copper, and the ease with which this metal can be fashioned into intricate shapes and curves, has made it quite popular for fashion jewelry today.