Protecting Copper Jewelry with Clear Nail Polish: Safety & Effectiveness

Question
Hi there, is it safe for skin to use clear nail varnish to coat copper discs in jewellery to stop them from tarnishing or changing colour?
Thanks Sue

Answer
Hi Sue,

There is actually a product on the market available from jewelry supply stores like nail polish.  It is marketed as a clear coating (applied like and looks like clear nail polish) to protect the skin from being irritated by certain metals.  Although this is working backwards to what you describe, it sounds like it would both protect the metal from tarnish and the skin from irritation.

I have also heard many people talk about using clear nail polish on sterling silver rings to prevent tarnish.  I don't know for certain that all clear polish would be safe for all people, but since it is designed to be placed on your nails, and your hands are likely to be in your mouth at some point, it should be safe.

If you really want to be certain, contact the polish manufacturer for any possible safety issues.

Lisa