Choosing a Metal
A question we get a lot is “What metal do I choose?” and the answer is different for everyone depending on how you plan on using the chain. The five main base metals we’re talking about are Steel, Brass, Copper, Aluminum and Stainless Steel. Here is some info that should help you decide.
- This is by far the most popular base metal.
- Lighter and stronger than brass or copper.
- Approximately a quarter of the cost of brass for the raw chain (The plating charge is same for steel, brass or copper).
- While the chain is sealed during plating, the possibility to rust still exists if in a wet environment.
- Brass would be the second most popular base metal.
- It is 13% heavier than steel, giving a piece more of a “perceived value”.
- Weighs and cost the same as copper chain.
- Is the only metal that we can do a brass ox finish on.
- Will not rust.
- Will tend to “hold” a plated finish better, yet once plated it’s difficult to see the difference between steel and brass…without a magnet.
- Copper is generally used in its natural state.
- It is almost always “vibed” or polished, but some people will use it raw if they plan on oxidizing it.
- Copper is “believed” to have medical benefits. For example some people claim it helps with arthritis.
- Aluminum is more of a specialty metal used when you want a very large, lightweight chain.
- It is the lightest of all of the base metals that we work with.
- It is very expensive to plate, due to the fact that not many platers have the ability to plate aluminum.
- Stainless is another chain that is almost always used in its natural state.
- It’s almost always used vibed.
- It is hypoallergenic.
- Will not rust.
- It is commonly used with religious jewelry because of it’s durability to being worn often.
We hope this helps you choose what metal you’d like to work with, but if you still have questions please call or email and we’ll do our best to help!
