Copper
Grc: χαλκός - Chalkos - Lat: aes Cyprium (metal of Cyprus) / Cuprum - En: Copper
Nuggets can be found in streams in some areas, or mined from sulfur ores. Used for decorative items and ornaments, door handles, door knobs, door hinges, and doors, shingles, cookware, or pounded into sheets to make pipes to transmit water. Too soft for tools and weapons unless alloyed with tin to make bronze, which is harder and can be forged (hammered into shape) or cast (poured as a liquid into a mold).
Properties
Material Characteristics
Forms a green patina of copper sulfate called verdigris that protects the metal from further corrosion.
Physical & Chemical Properties
A relatively soft and weak metal that conducts metal well.
Compounds
Copper plus tin makes Bronze.
Geology & Geography
Mycenaean and Hittite copper is found on the island of Alashiya in the Mediterranean. Mesopotamian copper comes from the area of modern Armenia. Egyptian copper comes from Khirbat en-Nahas in modern-day Jordan.
History & Usage
Cultural Significance and Usage
Associated with Aphrodite (who loves its mirrored surface) and the planet Venus.
Refinement
Can be smelted to increase purity.
Reusability & Recycling
Can be melted and recycled without loss of quality.
Distribution
Trade & Market
Extensively mined in Alashiya.
Color
Copper red and metallic when polished, becoming brown when tarnished. In a corrosive environment, copper takes on a green patina.
Melting / Freezing Point
1,085 °C (1,984 °F)
Common State
Copper oxide or sulfide ores contain 0.5% to 2% copper. Ores are crushed and powdered, then combined with reagents that pull out the copper metal.
Related Locations
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