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Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions

How do you tell the difference between brass and copper?

1 Answer
How do you tell the difference between brass and copper?
To tell the difference between brass and copper, study the color of the item carefully. Brass is a yellowish-red color that is similar to gold. As it ages, it usually develops a brown patina. On the other hand, copper looks redder when new and usually turns greenish with age. If color alone isn't enough to determine the material of a piece, consult an expert who can perform additional testing. Explore a variety of copper and brass wares on 1stDibs.
1stDibs ExpertOctober 7, 2024
Shop for Brass Furniture on 1stDibs
1950s Italian Stilnovo Brass and Opaline Glass Wall Sconces
Located in Rome, IT
Pair of Italian wall sconces from the 1950s, attributed to Stilnovo, crafted in brass with black lacquered brass accents and opaline glass diffusers. The design reflects the refined ...
Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces

Materials

Metal, Brass

Vintage Alabaster Pendant Lamp, Art Deco Style, French Design, 1930s
Located in Hannover, DE
This lovely pedestal lamp is made of precious alabaster, and it's a one-of-a-kind piece. This lamp is perfect for high rooms, but if you're worried about it being too long, don't be!...
Category

Vintage 1930s French Art Deco Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Alabaster, Brass, Copper

French Mid-Century Opaline Glass Pendant Light, Brass Fitting
Located in Amsterdam, NL
French white opaline glass industrial pendant. Weight 0.75 kg / 1.7 lb Priced per individual item. All lamps have been made suitable by international standards for incandescent lig...
Category

Mid-20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Brass

1950s Paavo Tynell 'Ballerina' 7 Lights Chandelier for Lightolier , USA
Located in St- Leonard, Quebec
A classic 1950s blend of Paavo Tynell collaboration with Lightolier USA model 'Ballerina' . 6 arms brass chandelier with enameled pierced shade giving it a starry night look whe...
Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Aluminum, Brass

Small Scandinavian Snow Ball Table Light in Brass, 1970s
Located in Esbjerg, DK
Unusually small table lamp with a great presence. It is composed of a stylized tripod brass base with ball feet and a free-resting white acrylic sphere. In Scandinavia we call this d...
Category

Vintage 1970s Scandinavian Scandinavian Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Brass

French Sconces Wall Lamps with Brass & Clear Holophane Glass
Located in Amsterdam, NL
French sconce, wall lamp Heavy clear reeded Holophane glass. Brass wall piece and arm diameter brass wall mount: 10 cm / 3.93” 3 holes to secure E14 bulb holder Weight: 1.20 kg / ...
Category

Mid-20th Century French Industrial Wall Lights and Sconces

Materials

Brass

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