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Brass is a warm, golden-hued metal that has been used in jewelry for centuries. It offers an elegant, rich color similar to gold—without the high price tag—making it a favorite for artisan jewelry. But like all metals, brass has its pros and cons, especially when it comes to wearing and caring for it.
If you love warm-toned metals and want affordable, beautifully crafted jewelry, brass may be the perfect choice for you. Let’s dive into why jewelry makers use brass and what you should know before wearing it.
Why Use Brass in Jewelry?
1. Affordability Without Sacrificing Beauty
Brass has a natural golden tone, making it an excellent alternative to solid gold or even gold-filled jewelry. Because it’s an alloy of copper and zinc, it’s significantly more affordable than gold while still offering a warm, elegant look.
For those who want statement pieces, bold designs, or nature-inspired jewelry without breaking the bank, brass is a fantastic option.
2. A Warm, Rich Metal That Compliments All Skin Tones
Brass has a soft, warm glow that complements all skin tones. It has a slightly deeper, more antique-like gold hue compared to 14kt or 18kt gold, giving it a vintage, rustic charm that pairs beautifully with earthy gemstones and organic designs.
3. Strong & Durable for Long-Lasting Jewelry
Unlike some soft metals (like pure gold or fine silver), brass is durable and resistant to bending. This makes it a great choice for larger pieces like cuffs, statement earrings, and bold pendants that need to hold their shape over time.
4. A Great Base for Gold Plating
Brass is often used as a base for gold-plated jewelry because its color is similar to gold. When paired with gold plating or a protective coating, it can have the same luxurious appeal as solid gold—but at a much lower cost.
The Downsides of Wearing Brass Jewelry
While brass is a beautiful and affordable metal, there are a few things to consider before adding it to your jewelry collection.
1. Brass Can Tarnish Over Time
Because brass contains copper, it will naturally oxidize and develop a patina over time. This patina gives brass an antique, vintage look, which some people love—but if you prefer a bright gold finish, you may need to polish your brass jewelry regularly.
💡 Tip: Store brass jewelry in a dry place and use a polishing cloth or lemon juice to remove tarnish when needed.
2. It May Cause Skin Discoloration
Brass jewelry can sometimes turn your skin green due to the copper content. This reaction is harmless but can be surprising if you’re not expecting it. The green color is caused by the copper reacting with sweat, oils, or lotions on your skin.
💡 Tip: To prevent this, apply a clear jewelry sealant or nail polish to the inner surfaces of your brass jewelry or choose pieces with a protective coating.
3. Not Ideal for Sensitive Skin
Because brass contains copper and zinc, it’s not hypoallergenic. Some people with metal sensitivities may experience irritation, especially if they have a reaction to copper. If you have sensitive skin, consider wearing brass jewelry over clothing or opting for gold-filled, sterling silver, or Argentium® silver instead.
💡 Tip: If you love the look of brass but have sensitive skin, try wearing brass earrings with sterling silver ear wires to avoid direct contact with your skin.
Is Brass Jewelry Right for You?
Brass is a fantastic option if you love warm, golden tones but don’t want to invest in solid gold. It’s affordable, durable, and beautiful, making it a great choice for nature-inspired, artisan jewelry.
However, if you prefer low-maintenance jewelry or have sensitive skin, you may want to consider gold-filled or sterling silver instead.
At our studio, we love using brass for its rich color, strength, and affordability, especially in boho-chic, nature-inspired pieces. With the right care, brass jewelry can be a long-lasting and cherished part of your collection.
Do you love the vintage charm of brass, or do you prefer metals that require less upkeep? Let us know in the comments!
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