45037. How can I tell if it is bronze or brass? [Rhode Island]

45037

How can I tell if it is bronze or brass? [Rhode Island]

May 7, 2007

I have purchased an antique ink well and pen tray which was said to be bronze. However, it is very yellow in appearance. How can I tell if it is bronze or brass? Thank you in advance for any help you can extend.

Ellen St.G. Sadlier
New Antique Dealer - Portsmouth, RI, USA

May 8, 2007

Bronze is a mixture of copper and tin, whilst brass is copper and zinc. Bronze is heavier than brass and is usually darker.

Trevor Crichton
R&D practical scientist - UK

May 9, 2007 -- appended to this thread by editor in lieu of spawning a duplicative thread

How can I tell if my bookends are bronze or brass. They are very heay and dark from aging.

Barb Jnatzi
- Medina, NY, USA