BRASS FACTS

WHAT IS BRASS?

Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc, the proportions of zinc and copper can be varied to create a range of brasses. The term “bronze” is applied to a variety of other alloy components (in place of zinc) such as arsenic, tin, phosphorus, aluminum, manganese and silicon. Color variations are the result of slightly different proportions of copper and zinc. In history, brass was the “poor man’s gold” or used where solid gold was too soft. Brass is often used where it is important that sparks not be struck. Brass finishes include a highly polished, mirror-like finish; a satin or brushed finish; a soft, hand rubbed finish; an antiqued patina, a bronze patina and verdigris finishes.

TELLING THE DIFFERENCE - SOLID BRASS & BRASS PLATING

An item is solid brass if the material is pure brass and can always be polished to its original beauty, although an old lacquer may need to be removed first.  Brass plated items are usually made of steel or zinc and molecules of brass are electroplated to them.  Because brass plating is very thin and will deteriorate over a period of time, a lacquer is usually applied to protect the plating. If the plating is deteriorated the piece will probably need to be replated to restore the brilliant brass shine.

Test item with a magnet - solid brass is not magnetic.  If the magnet sticks, the item is usually ferrous - steel or cast iron, with a brass plating.  If the magnet does not stick, test further by scratching a hidden area with a knife, awl or sharp tool.  If you see a shiny yellow scratch, the item is probably** solid brass. If you see a silvery scratch, your piece is probably zinc.  Iron, steel, and white metal can be replated, in which case a lacquer is always usually applied to protect the plating.

Lacquer is a clear coating which protects and preserves the beauty of the brass by sealing it from the air which oxidizes (tarnishes) it. Lacquer gives brass a high glossy shine and eliminates the need for polishing. Moisture exposed lacquer (such as bathroom faucets) will not hold up as long. But remember, solid brass, whether kept in or out-of-doors, can always be repolished and relacquered, no matter how hopeless it may look.

**Sometimes a thick sheet of brass is wrapped around a steel or zinc item, giving it more durability and strength. This is not solid brass but will appear like it is.

CARE & MAINTENANCE 

Never try to polish a lacquered piece, no matter what the metal, because polishing will damage and cloud the lacquer.  Lacquered items should be dusted and cleaned with a very soft cloth, which may be moistened.  

Removing lacquer for replating or polishing; We’ve found the easiest way to remove a lacquer coating is with a lacquer thinner, usually available at paint stores. Follow instructions as they vary slightly and repeat the process until all lacquer is removed, examine small tight areas to make sure all traces of lacquer are gone.

DIY Solution – Mix baking soda and water (1Tbsp of soda to a quart of water) and bring to a boil, immerse the item, one half at a time if your pot of solution is not large enough to immerse the item completely. Be careful to not overflow the pot when you immerse the item. Let boil for around 15 minutes and the coating will peel and flake off. Remove from the pot and rinse item with hot water. Remember to protect your hands and exposed skin rom hot water, the item will be 212 F coming directly out of the boiling water. Use acetone (nail polish remover) on a cotton ball of soft disposable cloth to remove any remaining traces of lacquer. Rinse.