Copper Kada Guide: Tambe Ka Kada Styles, Fit and Care
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The copper kada is one of those pieces that almost every Indian family knows. Someone's dadaji wore one his whole life. A mama gifted one to his nephew. A college friend never took his off. It is simple, it is affordable, and it goes with a kurta as well as a T-shirt.
This guide covers what people usually ask us before buying one: why it is worn, which design to pick, how to check it is pure copper and how to keep it clean.
Why is the copper kada worn in India?
Copper, or tamba, has been part of Indian homes for generations. Think of the tambe ka lota, the copper water vessel, and copper items used in puja. The copper kada comes from the same tradition. It is worn by men and women, by young and old, and it is often given as a gift within families.
For many people it is a style and tradition piece. It looks good with ethnic wear, it looks rugged with casual clothes, and it is plain enough for the office.
One clear note from us: we sell our copper kadas as traditional jewellery. We do not claim that they treat, heal or cure anything. If you have a health concern, please speak to a doctor.
Copper kada designs we sell
All the kadas in our copper kada collection are listed as 100% pure copper, unisex and adjustable. Right now every design is Rs 599. The difference is in the look.
| Design | Magnets | Look | Good for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plain Copper Kada | None | Smooth, solid, classic | Daily wear, office, first kada |
| 2 Magnet Twisted Copper Kada | 2 | Twisted rope style | Casual and ethnic wear |
| Engraved 2 Magnet designs | 2 | Flower engraving | Gifting, festive wear |
| 6 Magnet designs | 6 | Engraved or patterned with visible magnets | A bolder look |
| Engraved Copper Kada 10 magnets | 10 | Engraved with a row of magnets | People who like a heavy, busy design |
If you have never worn a kada before, start with the plain copper kada. It is non-magnetic, goes with everything, and is the most traditional look. If you want something with a bit more character, the twisted copper kada is a good middle option. For a statement piece, the engraved copper kada with 10 magnets has the busiest design.
About the magnets: on our kadas they are part of the design, set into the copper. Pick them if you like how they look.
Men vs women: is there a difference?
Not with our kadas. They are all unisex. A lot of women buy the plain or engraved design for themselves, and a lot of sisters buy them for brothers on Raksha Bandhan. Wear it alone, or with a watch on the other hand.
Kis haath me pehne?
There is no fixed rule. Many people wear it on the right hand, many on the left, and many simply follow what their family does. If you wear a watch, most people put the kada on the other wrist so the two do not knock against each other.
How to wear an adjustable kada
Our kadas are open-ended, so you can tighten or loosen them to your wrist size.
- Slide it on from the side of the wrist, through the gap, instead of forcing it over your hand.
- To tighten, press both ends gently towards each other. To loosen, pull them apart slowly.
- Adjust it once and leave it. Bending copper again and again at the same point weakens it.
How to tell if a copper kada is pure copper
- Colour. Pure copper has a warm, reddish brown colour, not a bright yellow like brass.
- It darkens. Real copper slowly darkens with air and sweat. A plated piece usually does not change colour the same way.
- A faint green mark on the skin. Copper can leave a light green mark when it mixes with sweat. It washes off with soap and water.
- Check the listing. Ours say 100% pure copper.
Copper kada kaise saaf kare
Copper is not waterproof, and it will darken over time. That is normal. Here is how to clean it at home:
- Mix a little lemon juice with a pinch of salt, or use a bit of tamarind paste.
- Rub it gently over the kada with your fingers or a soft cloth.
- Rinse quickly with plain water.
- Dry it completely with a towel before wearing or storing.
Some people like the darker, older look of copper and never clean it. That is a choice too. To slow down darkening, take the kada off before a bath and keep it in a dry pouch when not wearing it.
Want a kada you do not need to keep dry?
If you want a bangle-style piece that handles daily water better, look at the stainless steel cuffs in our bracelets collection. They are anti-tarnish and adjust to most wrists. They are a different look from copper, but easier to care for.
FAQs
Is your copper kada pure copper?
Yes. Every kada in our copper collection is listed as 100% pure copper.
Tambe ka kada men aur women dono pehen sakte hain?
Haan. All our copper kadas are unisex and adjustable, so they fit most wrists.
Can I bathe with a copper kada?
We suggest you take it off. Copper is not waterproof and darkens faster with water and soap. Dry it fully if it gets wet.
Why does my copper kada turn black?
Copper reacts with air and sweat and slowly darkens. Clean it with lemon and salt, rinse, and dry it completely.