Learn the quick way to identify brass vs. other metals. Tips and tests to distinguish real brass in everyday items
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This guide will show you how to quickly identify brass from other metals. Learn the telltale signs and methods for accurate identification.
Do you love finding metal pieces when you are out thrift shopping or while at a flea market sale? Brass has become one of my favorite pieces to find for our home decor. I have found lamps, containers and so many candlesticks!
The candlesticks have a special place in my heart because they remind me of a certain special lady in my life. That story is for another day. Today, let&#;s figure out how to tell if something is brass!
This is often a question many people consider when purchasing new Jewelry. If you notice a lot Jewelry such as rings, personalized necklaces, bracelet offer brass as the base metal often gold-plated in 14k Gold,18k Gold, Silver, or Rhodium. This is because brass is durable yet the most affordable out of the two, and if it is only looks you are after then this is a great choice. However, if you have allergies or would like to wear them in the shower and have low maintenance care, stainless steel may be the better option for you.
BRASS BASE METAL
Brass Properties: Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc making it susceptible to oxidation therefore turning green. The composition ranges anywhere from 50-63% and 50-37% zinc, with other materials used for malleability.
Brass Maintenance: Although Brass is good as a base metal, because it is susceptible to oxidation it is not ideal for everyday wear.
Oxidation occurs when brass reacts with Sulphur in the air. We highly recommend storing brass Jewelry in pouches when not in use. You should also avoid getting it wet or touching harsh chemicals such as perfumes and soap.
Benefits
The plating has a great appeal in looks and since it can be fashioned into all types of jewelry such as rings, necklaces and bracelets, you'll find plenty of options amongst the fast fashion industry.
Skin Sensitivity
This is one of the disadvantages of Brass. If you are allergic to brass, Stainless steel or solid gold jewelry will be a better option for you. Often when Jewelry turns green it is because the plating is too thin or wearing off and you may get a rash or often green fingers due to acidic skin or environmental conditions even from high quality brass-based designed Jewelry.
For more brass clad steelinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.
Brass based Jewelry is good for occasional wear. Brass Jewelry that are not plated are usually cheap costume pieces that turn green after the first use.
STAINLESS STEEL BASE METAL
Stainless steel properties
Stainless steel is an alloy comprised of Iron, Chromium and in some cases Nickel. This depends on what Grade of stainless steel you are looking at. Stainless Steel is great for everyday wear and is perfect for marine environments such as the ocean, pools, and shower.
Difference between 304 and 316 and 316L Stainless Steel in jewelry.
Both resist rusting and corrosion. 316 is more durable and better with being in water and acids such as salt and chlorine. 316 is also known as surgical steel and is the more premium of the two which also reflects in the pricing as well. 316L is even more superior than 316 with barely any traces of Nickel making it perfect for jewelry.
Maintenance/Benefits
Stainless steel is highly durable and can be worn in the shower or even swimming (although not advised in order to have your jewelry last longer) without turning green. It is a highly resistant material that resists water, scratches, and knocks. It will never tarnish and is very easy to maintain so it's well-suited for everyday wear. This makes it an excellent choice for a base metal, and more premium than brass.
Skin Sensitivity
Stainless Steel will never tarnish or rust from the oils on your skin or sweat making it an excellent choice. 316L jewelry is almost 100% free of nickel and widely known as hypoallergenic stainless steel. This is even better than Sterling Silver but I can talk about that in another article.
Here at CelestialbyAJ, we use high quality 316L as a base metal or sterling silver as a base metal.
IN CONCLUSION
If you are looking for something just for looks Brass could be a better option for you with its lower price point but still amazing aesthetic. If you would like less maintenance and something more durable to be worn in the shower or sweat on without having to worry about tarnishing then definitely go for Stainless Steel.
If you want to learn more, please visit our website copper clad stainless steel sheets.