Block of Copper

What is a Block of Copper?

A Block of Copper is a metallic storage and decorative block in Minecraft, crafted from Copper Ingots. It has a distinct orange-brown texture that naturally oxidizes over time, turning green unless waxed. This unique aging process makes it a dynamic building material, allowing players to create aged, weathered structures.

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Where Can Blocks of Copper Be Found?

Blocks of Copper do not generate naturally and must be crafted by players. They are made by placing nine Copper Ingots in a square inside a Crafting Table.

Copper Ingots are obtained by smelting Raw Copper, which can be mined from Copper Ore and Deepslate Copper Ore found underground, mostly between Y-levels 0 and 96.

Once placed in the world, a Block of Copper will gradually oxidize, transitioning through four stages:

• Block of Copper (bright orange)
• Exposed Copper (slightly corroded)
• Weathered Copper (green patina forming)
• Oxidized Copper (fully turquoise-green)

Players can prevent further oxidation by applying Honeycomb to a Copper Block, “waxing” it to freeze its current stage.

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What Can Players Do with Blocks of Copper?

Blocks of Copper are both decorative and functional, offering unique mechanics such as oxidation and waxing.

• Decorative Uses: Blocks of Copper are great for rooftops, industrial builds, steampunk cities, and ancient ruins due to their evolving patina effect. Their aged look allows players to create gradual decay in builds.
• Waxing to Preserve Appearance: Players can apply Honeycomb to a Block of Copper to keep it at its current oxidation stage, preserving its orange, exposed, or weathered look.
• Reversing Oxidation: Using an Axe on an oxidized Copper Block will scrape away oxidation, restoring it to an earlier stage.
• Lightning Rod Interaction: When struck by lightning, oxidized Copper Blocks will revert to their original unoxidized form.
• Crafting Uses: Blocks of Copper can be crafted into Cut Copper, which can then be made into Slabs and Stairs, expanding building flexibility.

Unlike Gold, Iron, or Emerald Blocks, Blocks of Copper cannot be used for beacon bases.

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The History of Blocks of Copper in Minecraft

Blocks of Copper were introduced in Minecraft Java Edition 1.17, as part of the “Caves & Cliffs” update. This was the first metal block in Minecraft to naturally change over time, bringing realistic weathering effects to the game.

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Interesting Fact or Real-Life Connection

Blocks of Copper mimic real-world copper oxidation, similar to the Statue of Liberty, which was originally bright copper before turning green over time due to exposure to air and moisture. Copper has been used in architecture, coins, and industrial machinery for centuries, just like how Minecraft players use it for functional and aesthetic designs.

For more details on Copper and its mechanics, visit the Rusty Ingot knowledge base to explore the Copper Guide.