How to identify an original Copper Water Drinking Bottle

Copper water bottles are gaining popularity as a stylish and healthy alternative to regular bottles. Although many health benefits associated with these bottles are not scientifically proven, there is some evidence suggesting that real copper can have antibacterial properties.(1) To ensure that you have a genuine copper bottle and not a counterfeit, there are several tests you can do at home. These tests include examining the color patterns of the metal and listening to the sound it makes. By following these 9 ways to determine the authenticity of your copper bottle, you can be confident in its purity and enjoy the potential health benefits it may offer.

1. Look for a red orange color

Copper is a metal that has a unique red-orange color, distinguishing it from silver or gold. This distinct hue is a result of copper's ability to absorb blue-green light. To verify if an object is made of copper, you can hold it up to the light and observe its color. If the object does not appear red-orange, there is a high probability that it is not made of copper.(2)

2. Test the bottle with a magnet

Copper is not attracted to magnets,(3) so if you want to determine whether your bottle is made of copper, you can conduct a simple test. Just take any magnet and see if the bottle sticks to it. If the bottle does stick to the magnet, then it is not made of copper.(4) However, if the bottle passes the magnet test and does not stick, it does not necessarily mean that it is made of copper, but it is a promising indicator.

3. Measure it with a multimeter.

Copper is a highly conductive metal with a resistance rating of 1.7 x 10⁻⁸ Ohm/meter. To determine if your copper bottle meets this rating, you can perform a simple test using a multimeter. Start by calibrating your multimeter to the "ohms" setting, which is the unit used to measure resistance and is denoted by the Greek letter omega. Set the multimeter to its lowest possible range and place both the red and black probe tips on the surface of your copper bottle. Take note of the resistance reading displayed on the multimeter. If it matches the 1.7 x 10⁻⁸ Ohm/meter rating, you can be confident that your bottle is indeed made of copper. (5) If you don't own a multimeter, you can easily purchase one at your local home improvement store.

4. Calculate the Density

Authentic copper has a density of 8.96 grams per cm³. Fill your bottle with water to figure out its volume, or how much fluid it holds. Then, place the bottle on a scale to figure out its mass in grams. Divide the mass measurement by the volume—typically, authentic copper density is around 8.96 grams per cm³.(6)

• For instance, if your water bottle weighed 1,000 grams and held 2400 cm³ of water, the density would only be 0.42 grams per cm³—therefore, it wouldn’t be real copper.

5. Tap on the surface to see what sound it makes.

True copper has a smooth sound. Give the surface of your bottle a quick tap—does it sound tinny? Authentic copper has a smooth, resonating sound, not a sharp one.(7)

6. Search for blue green spots.

Copper turns blue-green when exposed to the elements. These blue-green spots are known as patina, and help prevent long-term corrosion. If you notice this blue-green patina on your bottle, you can be confident that it’s made with real copper.(8)

• If your bottle is brand new, you probably won’t see any green spots.
  

7. Feel thr bottle for dents.

Copper is pretty fragile and may have some imperfections. If you’re using a secondhand copper bottle, there’s a good chance it’s picked up some dings and dents along the way. Rub your hand along the surface—if it’s completely smooth, your bottle might not be pure copper.(9)

• If your bottle is new, it might not have any dents or imperfections.

8. Look for a numeric code.

Copper isn’t registered or controlled by the Unified Numbering System (UNS). The UNS registers certain metals and alloys with a specific code. Copper isn’t controlled or labeled under this system—if you see a group of numbers or letters on your bottle, then it probably isn’t made of copper.(10)

• The UNS uses the “C” in some of their stamps, but this doesn’t mean the bottle is made with copper. The “C” is just part of their numbering system.

9. Shop from a trustworthy place.

Smart shopping can prevent a counterfeit purchase. Online shops may claim to sell pure copper bottles but may sell knock-offs. For high-quality, authentic goods, buy from a trustworthy copper seller(11) instead of chancing it with a company you're unsure about.

• If you do buy a copper bottle online, double-check the customer reviews first.