The Best Copper Bracelets

Buying Guide

For centuries, copper has been used for therapy and healing, even as studies have cast doubt on its effectiveness. For those who swear by their benefits, though, they bring no harm and may even have a placebo effect.

Arthritis and other types of joint pain seem to be among the most common conditions people hope to treat with copper. But some also believe it has antibacterial properties, making it popular for amongst those treating wounds. Even in people without symptoms, though, it can be a daily option for its purported antioxidant and immune-boosting benefits.

Although the benefits of wearing copper bracelets are unproven, copper itself does have bacterial-inhibiting properties. The human body naturally has trace amounts of copper as a mineral, and you can also get a boost of copper by eating foods like nuts, potatoes, green vegetables and even chocolate.

Those who turn toward copper for treating arthritis are supplementing the body’s natural reliance on copper for reducing inflammation. A diet rich in copper-fortified foods can help, but it can only go so far. The thinking with copper jewelry is that the copper absorbs into the skin and works its way into the bloodstream, providing the benefits your body gets from natural mineral sources.

The best thing about copper jewelry is that there’s no harm in wearing it. It can even make a bit of a fashion statement. And if you find that it helps ease your symptoms, some experts would advise you to go for it. As long as you don’t skip other treatment options and continue to eat a diet rich in essential nutrients, your copper jewelry can only be a good thing.

Some copper bracelets build in magnets for extra healing power. Believers say magnets affect the molecules in the body to help with certain conditions. However, this has not been scientifically proven, and there may even be side effects, including dizziness and nausea. However, low-power magnets likely won’t be cause for alarm. As always, though, it’s important to check with a physician who knows your health history before deciding to wear magnets all day, every day.

• If you’re choosing a copper bracelet for its healing benefits, you’ll likely want to look for pure copper. If it’s too diluted with other metals, you might not get the results you’re hoping to see. But for ornamental purposes, mixing copper with other metals can create an attractive look.
• Copper bracelets often come in sets. You can either combine bracelets or wear them separately.
• If you’re going for health benefits, it’s important to get a bracelet with a tight fit so that the copper comes in full contact with your skin. Most copper bracelets are adjustable for this reason. You can customize the fit to your own wrist by simply pressing on the ends.
• If you opt for a copper bracelet with magnets, try not to forget you’re wearing it. You’ll need to remove it before getting an X-ray or MRI.
• Copper bracelets can make a great gift. Some even come with gift packaging like a velvet bag that makes gifting easy.
• If you plan to wear your copper bracelet every day, take a look at your wardrobe and make sure it will blend well with the items you regularly wear.
• Copper is typically hypoallergenic, but some copper jewelry has a little nickel mixed in. Since this is a top allergen when it comes to metals, if you’re sensitive, check the full make-up of your bracelet.
• A little sparkle can jazz up your copper bracelet. This small decorative detail likely won’t take away from copper’s effects but will make it a little dressier.