posted on December 7, 2004 08:46:41 AM new
Hello,
Could anyone tell me how I can tell the difference between brass and bronze.
I have two dog sculptures and would like to know if they are brass or bronze.
I tried the magnet trick and it does not stick so I figure its not plated.
All I have read tells me that they just have different alloys but I can’t find
Any way to tell the difference by looking at it. I am assuming there is a price difference
If they are brass compared to bronze. I would appreciate any help. I would like
To give one as a teacher gift but I don’t want to give it away if it’s an expensive
piece. Thanks so much
tsts
posted on December 7, 2004 02:03:58 PM new
Brass is softer than Bronze. Brass is copper & lead, Bronze is copper & tin & is much harder. Most figures & small sculptures are brass as it is cheaper & easier to work with. Many ships screws (propellers) are made of bronze becaus bronze doesn't corrode in sea water. Also large outdoor sculpures are usually bronze. Alsom brass is brighter than bronze.
Life Is Too Short To Drink Bad Wine
[ edited by sanmar on Dec 7, 2004 02:05 PM ]
posted on December 7, 2004 02:23:29 PM new
Sometimes it is very difficult to tell the difference, but I have found that bronze has a more copper tone to it whereas brass is more yellowish.
posted on December 7, 2004 04:35:37 PM new
Isn't bronze a lot heavier too?
After awhile you can tell by the feel - like they said - it's harder and doesn't scratch as easy.
posted on December 7, 2004 04:54:22 PM new
Thought brass is a alloy consisting of Copper and Zinc - not copper and lead as stated. Bronze is ofcourse copper and tin - hence the importance of tin mining during the bronze age.
buyhigh
posted on December 7, 2004 05:02:39 PM new
Ralphie, who is known in the ANIMAL KINGDOM as the UNDISPUTED & #ONE...
"Mr Know-It-All"
states the following:
Brass is Copper and Zinc.
Bronze is Copper and Tin.
Like brass the high copper bronzes are the most forgeable. "Gilding Bronze" is similar to one of the more forgeable bronzes.
When shiny, brass looks very gold in color. Bronze looks more coppery. When well oxidized or patinated they both have a very similar green...
