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.