Brass
Brass is a yellow-gold copper and zinc alloy often used in hardware, decorative objects, instruments, keys, fittings, and jewelry findings.
Brass properties at a glance
| Type | Metals & Alloys |
|---|---|
| Chemical formula | Copper-zinc alloy; composition varies |
| Mohs hardness | 3.5 |
| Luster | metallic |
| Streak | Yellow-gold to brass |
| Cleavage | None |
| Fracture | Ductile to uneven |
| Specific gravity | 8.5 |
| Transparency | opaque |
| Common colors | Yellow gold, Brass yellow, Brown, Tarnished gold |
| Rarity | common |
Geology & background
Brass is manufactured by alloying copper with zinc, then casting, rolling, machining, or stamping it into objects.
Brass has been used for centuries in decoration, instruments, fittings, coins, and mechanical parts because it is workable and corrosion resistant.
How to identify Brass
- Look for a warm yellow-gold metal color.
- Brass is usually yellower than bronze and less orange-red than copper.
- Tarnished areas may appear brown, olive, or dull gold.
- Common objects include keys, fittings, screws, handles, and instruments.
Where Brass is found
Brass is manufactured, refined, recycled, or traded worldwide; verify grade, purity, and origin from markings, documentation, or provenance when available.
How much is Brass worth?
| Entry-level specimen | $1 |
|---|---|
| Typical collector specimen | $15 |
| Premium specimen | $150+ |
Value depends mostly on the object, purity or alloy grade, weight, brand, condition, markings, and whether it is jewelry, hardware, a coin, a tool, or a raw material sample.
Common uses
- Keys and locks
- Decorative hardware
- Musical instruments
- Fittings and fasteners
- Jewelry findings
Interesting facts
- Brass often looks more yellow than bronze.
- Tarnished brass can darken to brown or muted olive tones.
- Keys, screws, fittings, and many decorative objects are commonly brass.
Care & safety
Brass can scratch, dent, tarnish, corrode, or lose its surface finish depending on the alloy, coating, and use wear.
Check sharp edges. Manufactured metal objects can have sharp edges, burrs, broken points, or worn plating; handle damaged pieces carefully.
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