mp ring. Among the variety of materials available, copper jump rings stand out for their rich color, affordability, and workability—making them a fantastic option for beginners and experienced crafters alike.

In this guide, we’ll explore what copper jump rings are, why they’re ideal for DIY jewelry, and how you can start using them in your designs with confidence.

🔍 What Are Copper Jump Rings?

Jump rings are small, circular (or occasionally oval) metal rings with a cut that allows them to be opened and closed. They act as connectors in jewelry making—used to attach clasps, connect chain links, suspend charms, or even create intricate chainmaille patterns.

Copper jump rings are made from pure or alloyed copper wire. They’re known for their warm reddish-brown hue, which can deepen over time into a beautiful antique patina, depending on exposure to air and wear.

🧡 Why Use Copper Jump Rings?

Here’s why copper jump rings are an excellent choice for beginners:

Easy to Work With: Copper is softer than many other metals, making it easier to open, close, and shape without requiring excessive hand strength.

Affordable: Copper jump rings are budget-friendly, perfect for practice pieces or starting a new hobby without overspending.

Aesthetic Appeal: The natural warm tone of copper pairs beautifully with earth tones, gemstones, and boho-chic styles.

Aging Gracefully: Over time, copper develops a patina that adds vintage charm to your jewelry (or it can be cleaned for a bright finish).

🧰 What You’ll Need to Get Started

Tools:

Two pairs of flat-nose or chain-nose pliers

Jewelry wire cutters (if you’re making your own jump rings)

A polishing cloth or anti-tarnish wipes

Materials:

Pre-made copper jump rings (available in open, closed, or split styles)

Copper wire (if you want to make your own)

Charms, clasps, beads, chain, or wire-wrapped elements

🔗 How to Open and Close Copper Jump Rings Properly

Hold the Ring with Two Pliers – Grip each side of the ring at the split using a pair of pliers.

Twist, Don’t Pull – Gently twist one side forward and the other backward to open the ring. Never pull it apart sideways as it can weaken the metal.

Attach Your Components – Slip on the charm, chain link, or clasp.

Close the Ring – Twist the ends back together until they align perfectly. A good-quality ring should click slightly when the ends meet.

🎨 Creative Ideas for Using Copper Jump Rings

Charm Bracelets – Use copper jump rings to attach charms and personalize bracelets.

Dangle Earrings – Connect bead drops to earring hooks using small copper rings.

Necklace Extensions – Add jump rings at the end of a chain to create adjustable lengths.

Wire-Wrapped Pendants – Use copper rings to connect your wrapped stone to a chain.

Chainmaille Jewelry – Try beginner weaves like Byzantine or 2-in-2 using all-copper rings for a bold, rustic look.

🧼 Caring for Your Copper Jewelry

Copper naturally oxidizes over time, which gives it an antique look. If you prefer a shiny finish, here are a few tips:

Store in a dry, sealed container with anti-tarnish strips.

Polish regularly with a soft cloth or copper cleaner.

Apply a jewelry-safe sealant (like Renaissance Wax) to slow oxidation.

Some crafters also choose oxidized copper jump rings intentionally for that dark, rustic finish—no cleaning required!

📦 Where to Buy Copper Jump Rings

You can find copper jump rings online through craft suppliers like:

Fire Mountain Gems

Rio Grande

Etsy shops

Make sure you check the gauge and inner diameter (ID) for compatibility with your designs. Popular gauges for beginners range from 18 to 20, and common inner diameters include 4mm to 8mm.

🧵 Final Thoughts

Copper jump rings are more than just connectors—they’re a way to bring warmth, texture, and character into your handmade jewelry. Their ease of use, low cost, and rustic charm make them perfect for both practice and polished pieces.

Whether you’re attaching a charm, making earrings, or experimenting with chainmaille, copper jump rings are a beginner-friendly essential you’ll come back to again and again