How to reduce oxidation of copper rivets?

[RichardJ]

Got a heavy duty harness leather work belt recently which uses copper rivets. I’m a very sweaty person and work in construction wearing this belt 5-6 days/week. 
 

I'm wondering what methods are best to prevent the rate at which they oxidize? I’ve seen a few pictures of older belts with copper rivets that have a significant amount of green around the rivets. Not really a huge issue as it’s a work belt, but I’d prefer if I could significantly reduce it somehow. 

[fredk]

You can get a special clear lacquer coating to paint or dip copper or brass. Its a cellulose lacquer. I used to use a lot of it on the brass fittings on my medieval shields so it stands up to use well, but if you use a wire scrubber it will come off

I can't remember the name right now. If I find out I'll edit this

Edit; Its called 'Rustins Metal Lacquer' [ who would have guessed it?   ]

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Rustins-Metal-Lacquer-Clear-RUSCML125/dp/B07DF7F2ZZ?source=ps-sl-shoppingads-lpcontext&ref_=fplfs&psc=1&smid=A2UE65O1XILPTJ&gQT=1

btw, a thot; you'll have diffs coating the attached rivets where they meet the leather. That part will still oxidize and stain the leather. Unless you are prepared to remove them, coat them and replace them or new ones

Edited 4 hours ago by fredk

[RichardJ]

Thanks I’ll give this a look. I read somewhere that clear nail polish is another short term solution. Using a metal wire brush is another option but I fear I’d damage the leather quite a bit using that method. 

[fredk]

Clear nail varnish will work, but its short-term. Its not as tough as the Rustins and will wear off after a short time

[RichardJ]

59 minutes ago, fredk said:

Clear nail varnish will work, but its short-term. Its not as tough as the Rustins and will wear off after a short time

Unfortunately I’m in Canada and can’t seem to find it. I’ll keep searching as the belt is still new and I shouldn’t have to worry about oxidation just yet.

[fredk]

The Rustins you mean?

That link was for Amazon UK but it should be on your Amazon. Or ebay, or your general hardware store - its used a lot on the brass fittings on doors