How To Age Brass
What is Age Brass?
Something to consider. Like our Natural Brass finish, Aged Brass is presented uncoated. Whilst this does leave an exquisite silken surface it does also mean that water, soap and chemicals are able to accelerate darkening where they have come into contact with the surface.
How To Age Brass
Apply salt water to make brass slightly darker.
A mix of equal parts table salt and water will oxidize the brass, simply speeding up the natural aging process brass undergoes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take brass to age naturally?
two years
As the metal ages, it darkens and develops that distinct patina and beautiful character – exactly the thing we’re after here. But it takes time. A long time. Could be two years if you just let it go its natural course!
How does brass age outside?
Brass will “patina” or turn darker over time as it is exposed to the elements, but it will not corrode and is a great option for outdoor and landscape lighting. Brass fixtures are great options for coastal environments.
What turns brass dark?
Brass, like silver, tarnishes because its metal components—copper and zinc—are exposed to oxygen. This is a natural process. The oils in your skin also have an effect on brass, so the more an item is used, the more corrosion or tarnish can occur.
What turns brass brown?
Copper Rust Patina causes a red to brown finish on bronze, brass, and copper. This cold patina should not need to be diluted. It will blacken iron and steel if applied hot. Copper Rust Patina does not work on the Metal Coatings.
What color is aged brass?
brown
Antique brass is treated to appear aged; it’s typically a rich, deep brown shade with golden undertones. This warm, low-luster finish is most similar to natural brass but will not tarnish or patina.
Can brass be age hardened?
If, on the other hand, the brass has some residual stress in it then some age hardening could occur as nitrogen from the air acts to restrict atomic dislocations as it diffuses into the brass. Being in a zip-lock bag might act to limit the amount of air (nitrogen) present.
How can you tell if brass is real?
Solid brass is not magnetic. If the magnet sticks, the item is usually steel or cast iron, with a brass plating. If the magnet does not stick, you can test further by scratching a hidden area with a sharp tool. If you see a shiny yellow scratch, the item is likely solid brass.
What product is used to age brass?
Caro recommends mixing a pinch of salt into a container that has a lid with vinegar until the salt dissolves. The container should be large enough to hold the brass. Also, Caro says any vinegar will do.
What happens to brass in rain?
Overall, brass loses its zinc component relatively quickly when submerged in water, causing the metal to weaken and putting its structural integrity at risk. Outside of situations where it’s submerged in water, brass is a great metal for outdoor applications due to its amazing endurance.
What does aged brass look like?
Over the years, unlaquered brass matures into a worn-in, old-world finish that’s unique and beautiful and character-rich. It’s vaguely reminiscent of a brushed-metal finish but more dulled and worn than brushed, and rather than a uniform finish, it has all these small intricacies that a machine just can’t recreate.