Copper Heart

I first met this source at the 2020 Tucson Gem Show. It is a foundry, a factory or workshop that melts and casts metals. I was able to speak with the foundry’s owner and get detailed explanations about the difference between Native Copper and Copper nuggets and how each one is cleaned and treated. Michigan used to have a large commercial Copper mine, but it has been closed for many years. During its heyday, the Copper mine was so productive that there is still plenty of Copper in the slag-piles and along roadways that can be easily gathered.  In 2023, the owner decided to retire after over 40 years in business.  I called and arranged to buy the last of their Bismuth and copper nuggets.

In 2025, to my great delight, I met two women who had taken over the business.  We had an immediate connection, they are funny, smart and have good hearts.  I look forward to knowing them for many years to come.