Brass is fast becoming one of the most popular materials in fashion jewellery, seen on the catwalk and the high street and the shopping mall. Typically, brass tended to be used in jewellery for a touch of cheap ‘class’, because with its muted yellow tone, it looks a little like gold. But nowadays, the beauty of brass is appreciated in its own right.
Of course, brass is also a cheaper option than gold or silver, and in these tough economic times, that counts for a lot. But increasingly, designers are sitting up and taking notice of the instrinsic beauty of brass, whether it’s in matt tones, highly-polished pendants, or just used in necklace chains.
What is brass?
Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc. If you’re confused about the difference between bronze and brass, bronze is principally an alloy of copper and tin.
Brass has good acoustic properties, which is why it’s used in so many musical instruments like the trumpet or trombone. Brass is also favoured for uses such as locks, gears and doorknobs. And now brass is finding favour in fashion jewellery.
Uses in Jewellery
Brass is widely used in chains for necklaces or bracelets. But you’ll also find it is increasingly used in pendants, and mixed with other substances, including beads and glass, to create stunning contemporary designs. Although it is commonly associated with a ‘vintage’ look, brass is now taking on new forms and acquiring a reputation for being modern.
Brass jewellery can also be dainty and light, and not just chunky. There’s a common misconception that it’s a material that’s weighty, but contemporary jewellery designers are proving that it’s as flexible as silver or gold.
Looking After Your Brass Jewellery
One of the great things about brass is that it is relatively resistant to tarnishing, and taking care of your brass jewellery is really pretty simple. That makes it a great material to use in fashion jewellery.
When it comes to cleaning, maintaining your brass jewellery is straightforward. Firstly, wash in hot soapy water; this simple (and cheap!) cleaning method may be enough to get your brass clean. To clean brass with lemon juice, you can either use it neat, or mixed with vinegar or salt or baking soda. Alternatively, you can use either sour milk, natural unflavoured yoghurt, or whey to clean your brass.
Yes, seriously, natural products offer a genuinely effective way of keeping your brass jewellery clean and blemish-free!
A Fashion Jewellery Trend that’s Here To Stay!
Nowadays, brass is no longer associated with door knobs, trumpets and locks. Fashion jewellery that incorporates this beautiful metal is fast acquiring status as celebrities and designers flock to wear brass.