Aloha, fun & authoritative answers -- no cost, no registration, no passwords, no popups
(as an eBay Partner & Amazon Affiliate we earn from qualifying purchases)

Where the
world gathers for metal finishing
Q&As since 1989

-----

How to Oxidize my Aluminum Belt Buckle

Someone at a jewelry supply manufacturer suggested that I use bleach [adv: bleach/sodium hypochlorite in bulk on eBay or Amazon] to oxidize a brass belt buckle with aluminum finish. It's not working or do I need to leave it in bleach over night or for a period of time?

Any suggestions?

Karina Turcotte
- New York, New York
2003

2003

The finish may look like aluminum but I doubt that it is. If it's not paint, my bet is that it's satin nickel plated. I don't know what color you consider 'oxidized', but I don't think you will be able to turn nickel that color with bleach (which is very harmful to most nice metals anyway). You may be able to darken the finish with liver of sulfur [on eBay or Amazon] or brass darkening solution [on eBay or Amazon].

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey

Can anyone tell me if liver of sulfur can be used to oxidise aluminium. Or does anyone know what can be used to give aluminium an antique look

Mary Odaniel
small jewellery business owner - Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
April 1, 2009

(No "dead threads" here! If this page isn't currently on the Hotline your Q, A, or Comment will restore it)

Q, A, or Comment on THIS thread -or- Start a NEW Thread

Disclaimer: It's not possible to fully diagnose a finishing problem or the hazards of an operation via these pages. All information presented is for general reference and does not represent a professional opinion nor the policy of an author's employer. The internet is largely anonymous & unvetted; some names may be fictitious and some recommendations might be harmful.

If you are seeking a product or service related to metal finishing, please check these Directories: