How to Identify 100% Pure Copper Products
Copper products have gained massive popularity due to their health benefits, durability, and eco-friendly nature. From copper water bottles to kitchenware and home décor, many buyers now prefer copper over plastic and steel. However, with rising demand comes a major challenge fake or mixed copper products in the market.
If you want to enjoy the true benefits of copper, it’s essential to know how to identify 100% pure copper products. This buyer guide will help you make an informed and safe purchase.
Why Buying Pure Copper Matters
Pure copper is not just about appearance it directly impacts health, safety, and performance. Mixed or coated copper products may:
Offer little to no health benefits
Release harmful metals into water
Corrode quickly
Lose durability and value
Authentic copper products ensure safe mineral release, proper antimicrobial properties, and long-term use.
1. Check the Color and Finish
Pure copper has a distinct reddish-brown color with a warm, earthy tone. It should not look shiny like steel or yellow like brass.
Things to look for:
Natural shine, not mirror polish
Slight variations in color (handcrafted sign)
No paint or artificial coating
Over time, real copper develops a natural patina, which is normal and confirms authenticity.
2. The Magnet Test (Simple & Effective)
Copper is non-magnetic. This makes the magnet test one of the easiest ways to identify pure copper.
How to do it:
Place a magnet on the product
If it sticks → the product contains iron or steel
If it doesn’t → likely pure copper
3. Sound Test: Listen Carefully
Pure copper produces a soft, dull sound when tapped gently, unlike steel or brass which create a sharp ringing sound.
This test works best for:
Copper bottles
Copper tumblers
Copper cookware
4. Weight Matters
Copper is a dense and heavy metal. A pure copper product will feel heavier compared to steel or aluminum products of the same size.
If a copper bottle feels unusually light, it may be:
Copper-coated
Mixed with cheaper metals
5. Scratch Test (Use Carefully)
Lightly scratching the surface in an inconspicuous area can reveal the true metal underneath.
What to observe:
Pure copper remains reddish throughout
If silver or grey appears underneath → copper-plated product
6. Oxidation Test (Natural Reaction)
Copper reacts naturally with air and moisture, forming a dark or greenish patina over time.
You can check authenticity by:
Leaving a drop of lemon juice on the surface
Pure copper will darken slightly
Fake copper shows little to no reaction
7. Check for Food-Grade Certification
For copper water bottles and kitchen products, ensure the copper is food-grade and lead-free.
Look for:
Product description stating “100% pure copper”
No internal chemical lining
Brand quality assurance
8. Beware of Copper-Coated Products
Many products in the market are copper-plated, not pure copper. These have a thin copper layer over steel or aluminum.
Signs of copper-coated products:
Extremely low price
Very shiny or uniform finish
Magnetic attraction
Inner lining or coating
9. Ask About Manufacturing Method
Handcrafted copper products often indicate higher purity and quality compared to mass-produced items.
Ask the seller:
Is it handmade or machine-made?
What thickness of copper is used?
Is the product lacquer-free?
10. Buy from Trusted Brands
The safest way to ensure authenticity is to buy from a trusted copper brand with clear product details, customer reviews, and quality assurance.
At LA Copper, our products are:
Made from 100% pure, high-grade copper
Handcrafted by skilled artisans
Food-safe, lead-free, and toxin-free
Designed for durability and everyday use