If you are a big fan of antique items, there is good news for you! They are back in today’s fashion. Yes, the fashion of antique brass is emerging slowly. If you have such items along with you in the house, then it is high time to take their best care. Doing so will help make the items presentable for display, finally reflecting the aristocracy your family holds.
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Few Words About Antique Brass Items
Brass has always remained rich with lots and lots of history, and it is a blend of zinc, copper, and some more minor elements. If you have gone through the pages of history books, you must have come across assorted items ranging from lighting fixtures to showpieces. The shine and the weight depend on the composition of the elements used in its preparation.
Being stronger than ordinary items, antique brass items mostly include a collection of decorative domestic wares. Prevalent since the nineteenth century, such items have been and will always be popular. As internet savvy, you will encounter many e-shops that sell brass pieces in variable sizes. The prices also differ in terms of sizes and the intricate designs included.
How to Identify Antique Brass Items?
Quite simple! You will come across many choices in the market that pretends to be manufactured using brass. There are some vital points to consider when recognizing decorative items comprising of antique brass. It comprises a deep and heavy golden-brown color. Though not a shiny metal, its beauty lies in antiquity.
At the time of purchase, it is advisable to check the coatings. Hard coatings develop due to oxidation, and this is another property that makes it stand out from ordinary brass items.
Cleaning Antique Brass Items- Points To Note
As a part of general knowledge, you must know that maximum items that have been manufactured using antique brass are lacquered. The lacquering helps prevent the item from getting attacked by air, moisture, and oil. The items devoid of tarnishing reflect the inclusion of lacquering. Though, after several years, these items become dirty.
In such cases, it is advisable to clean those items to get back the lost luster. Some important points must be kept in high consideration when cleaning those items. They include:
- Avoid Using Abrasives – Some people commit the blunder of cleaning the polish of the brass materials with the help of an abrasive cleaner. As a result, they damaging of damage the lacquer resulting in further trouble.
- Using Warm Water and Mild Detergent – Using a mixture of warm water and mild detergent is one of the best solutions for cleaning antique brass items. All you can do is dip the soft cotton cloth in the mixture and gently rub the surface, and submerging the item is not necessary.
- Polishing The Plated Brass Items Gently – As brass comprises a thin metallic layer, it is better to polish the surface gently to prevent unnecessary damage. You may use Brass for polishing the surface, followed by avoiding hard rubbing.
Final Words
Lastly, if the lacquer of the antique brass item has become damaged, then better place it in the hands of a professional. Otherwise, you may end up destroying the finish of the entire thing. In such cases, it is advised to look for an experienced professional nearby specializing in the restoration of antique brass items and vintage items.
Author Bio: Alyssa Moylan is an ordinary woman from Australia, a writer by day and a reader by night. She writes on various topics like home improvement, business, lifestyle, health, travel, and fashion. She likes to think of ways on how to solve the daily life problems of people. Follow her on Twitter to stay updated.