Brass
An alloy of copper and zinc, widely used in fashion and costume jewelry as a base metal for gold plating.
Last updated: July 6, 2026
Detailed Explanation
Brass is a copper-zinc alloy that serves as one of the most common base metals in fashion jewelry manufacturing. Its golden-yellow color makes it an ideal substrate for gold plating, as minor wear to the plating layer reveals a similarly-toned base rather than a starkly different color. Brass is significantly less expensive than silver or gold, making it the material of choice for high-volume fashion jewelry. Common brass alloys used in jewelry contain 65-85% copper and 15-35% zinc. The material is also used in jewelry findings, chains, and decorative components. Low-grade brass may contain lead — buyers should specify lead-free brass for EU and US market compliance.
Common Uses
Fashion jewelry, costume jewelry, gold-plated items, chains, findings, pendants.
Advantages
Low cost, good castability, golden color ideal for gold plating substrates, readily available.
Limitations
Can cause skin discoloration, may contain nickel or lead in lower-grade alloys, tarnishes rapidly without plating.