
The Island of Cyprus is one of the sources of Copper and its name given by the Romans. Copper first discovered 13,000 years ago, is the oldest mined mineral and was found in Egyptian and Sumerian household items like cooking pots by 3800 BC.
COPPER JEWELRY
Ancient Egyptians were first to create an alloy of tin and copper, otherwise known as Bronze and an alloy if zinc and copper, known as Brass. And this propelled them toward modern Civilization. By 2500BC Copper had become a very valuable item, wealthy Egyptians wore Copper jewelry and the usage of it also meant higher social status. They created jewelry and crowns and the jewelry makers were highly regarded. One can see jewelry making on painted monuments and walls.
ANCIENT NATIVE AMERICANS
Copper has been found in may archeological sites, timing the usage of the metal around the same time Egyptians were mining it. Early Native Americans made jewelry out of Copper, hammered and etched pieces and beads, and later traded Copper bracelets with the Europeans. The Navajo are credited with creating Copper jewelry for trading, and by late 1800's, Copper jewelry became common in the South West.
Arizona is the largest deposits of Copper.
In the Mid 20th Century the interest in Copper soared for various reasons, from the early modernist Francisco Rebajes, the abstract and bold designs of Renoir-matisse by Jerry Fells, traditional symbols of Native American culture and the re-emergence of healing beliefs in the properties of Copper; to today's great appeal in the special qualities and healing properties which is said to stimulate the mental flow of energy. Copper, since Prehistoric times, still catches the interest of many who see beauty and value in it.