Explore this comprehensive guide on aged brass

Aged brass is a raw, living material that naturally evolves over time, developing a captivating patina that fuses art with science and balances beauty with functionality. Suited to design schemes ranging from modern contemporary to rustic farmhouse, this timeless finish brings warmth and character to any space, evoking a charming, lived-in feel. 

This comprehensive guide explores how aged brass is created, the environmental factors that influence its patina, and the essential care tips for preserving its appearance. We also delve into the details of our new tumbled aged brass and AntiquePVD finishes and how they can elevate your space.

What is aged brass?

Aged brass is a metal alloy composed mainly of copper and zinc. Unlike lacquer-coated brass, it embraces the natural aging process, developing a thin film of patina that creates an organic, lived-in look over time. As it ages, the finish experiences subtle colour and texture shifts — contributing to its innate charm.

What is tumbled aged brass?

Our new tumbled aged brass finish is achieved by placing raw brass components into a vibratory machine containing natural abrasive and ceramic media, such as small stones or ceramic pieces. They are then ‘tumbled’ to allow the media to smooth out rough edges and remove imperfections while enhancing the metal to achieve a unique textured look and feel. 

We exclusively offer raw, unlacquered brass as we value the natural oxidation process for a more authentic, aged finish. No two products will age the same, helping you achieve individuality in your design. With its timeless, textural allure, tumbled aged brass effortlessly lends itself to a range of design styles, from rustic farmhouses to minimalist Japandi interiors.

What is antique brass?

Antique brass is a finish designed to replicate the look of naturally aged brass. It provides the tarnished appearance of aged metal without the unpredictability of further patination, making it an excellent option for those seeking consistency in their design.

As featured on The Block 2024 by Maddy and Charlotte, our new AntiquePVD Aurum finish combines long-lasting durability with the timeless sophistication of textured, antique brass. It is crafted using ABI’s exclusive 3-step process that integrates ceramic and vibrational technology with advanced PVD coating to offer unparalleled elegance and durability.

Compared to the radiant shine of our signature brushed brass finish, Aurum features a more organic, matte look. This unique quality makes it a striking statement piece that complements both modern and traditional interiors.

How does brass age?

Patination is the natural process by which a material’s surface changes colour and texture due to exposure to environmental factors. Because of their chemical composition, copper and brass are particularly susceptible to patination. 

When exposed to air, moisture, and other compounds, raw uncoated brass undergoes a series of chemical reactions that form a patina over time. This patina not only contributes to its aesthetic appeal but also provides a protective layer that slows down further corrosion.

As the brass ages, the finish softens, creating a muted appearance and slightly rougher texture. Visually, aged brass ranges from bright gold to deeper brown and green tones.

Areas frequently touched develop lighter tones, while untouched sections darken and oxidise over time, forming a rich, unique lustre. This change gives aged brass products their rustic, lived-in feel. Each product will naturally patina differently and at different speeds depending on the installation environment.

Environmental factors contributing to aging

A host of environmental factors influence the speed at which brass naturally ages. These include:

Humidity: Moist air accelerates oxidation, deepening the patina and creating a textured surface.

Air quality: Pollutants and chemicals can cause uneven tarnishing, adding to the brass’ unique finish.

Temperature: Rapid fluctuations in temperature cause micro-expansions on the product’s surface, contributing to its weathered appearance.

Water exposure: Constant contact with water, especially mineral-rich sources, enhances discolouration.

Coastal conditions: Salt from ocean air accelerates corrosion, giving the brass a rustic, weathered finish.

Chemical exposure: Acidic or alkaline substances erode the surface, creating varied textures.

Physical wear: Scratches and abrasions expose brass to air, speeding up oxidation.

The benefits of aged brass

Aged brass is renowned for both its aesthetic appeal and durability. Its warm patina adds personality and charm to any design, complementing natural materials such as wood, stone, and leather and fitting seamlessly into both modern and traditional interiors. It is frequently used in cabinet handles, light fixtures, tapware, and accent furniture.

Beyond aesthetics, aged brass is known for its durability. Brass, by nature, is an alloy of copper and zinc, offering excellent strength and corrosion resistance. As the patina forms, it acts as a protective layer, helping the metal resist further corrosion. With proper care, aged brass can last for decades, making it an excellent choice for high-use areas such as kitchens, bathrooms, and laundries.

How to care for aged brass

Maintaining the patina of your aged brass products is simple but requires careful consideration of your installation environment. Regular dusting helps prevent dirt build-up, and gentle cleaning with warm water and mild dish soap is usually enough to remove surface grime. If you live in a coastal location, we recommend weekly cleaning if you wish to slow down visible mineralisation and maintain a more subtle patina.

You can use a quality brass cleaner such as Brasso and a clean, soft cloth to keep your aged brass looking shiny and return it to a brighter condition without compromising its integrity. However, you should avoid abrasive cleaners that strip the patina and damage the finish.

To maintain the aged look, avoid polishing the brass, allowing the patina to develop naturally over time.

Is aged brass right for you?

Aged brass’ natural ability to evolve over time makes it a treasured element in design, bringing authenticity and timeless elegance to any space. Understanding the environmental factors that influence its transformation is crucial to appreciating its unique journey and caring for it effectively. 

Whether you prefer a soft patina, the rugged charm of tumbled aged brass, or the durability of AntiquePVD, this metal offers endless possibilities for design. Incorporating aged brass into your home ensures a blend of durability and elegance that will continue to evolve, enriching your space for years to come.