Radiant Copper
There is evidence that gold and iron were the only metals used by humans before copper. In Greece, copper was known as chalkos. In Roman times, it was known as aes Cyprium, aes being Latin for copper alloys and Cyprium from Cyprus, where it was mined. The phrase was simplified to cuprum, hence the English copper. Venus represented copper in mythology and alchemy, due to its lustrous beauty and its use in producing mirrors.
Early Romans used copper lumps as money. It was also used by Renaissance sculptors and, in America, the Statue of Liberty became the largest copper statue in the world. Copper plating for ships' hulls was widespread and, because of the waterproof nature of copper, it has been used as roofing for centuries.
In ancient India, copper was used in the holistic medical science Ayurveda for surgical instruments and ancient Egyptians used copper for sterilizing wounds and drinking water. Copper burial ornaments from the 15th century have been uncovered, but the metal's commercial production did not start until the early 20th century.
Copper has been in use at least 10,000 years, but more than 95% of all copper ever mined has been extracted since 1900. Chile is the top producer of copper followed by the US, Indonesia and Peru. Recycling is a major source of copper now with 80% of the copper ever mined still in use today.
Copper is also commonly found in jewelry - folklore stating that copper bracelets relieve arthritis symptoms! True or not, copper is enjoying a resurgence in breathtaking earings, bracelets, necklaces, rings, bangles, cuffs, and pendants. Check out these stores for their latest designs: Baci Duty Free, Designworks, and ib designs.
