Bronze vs. Brass in Jewelry: What’s the Difference?

When it comes to warm, golden-hued metals, bronze and brass are two beautiful and affordable options often used in artisan jewelry. Both metals have been used for centuries, from ancient jewelry to modern designs, but they have distinct characteristics that affect the look, feel, and longevity of your jewelry.

If you’ve ever wondered whether bronze or brass is the better choice for jewelry, this guide will break down their differences, benefits, and drawbacks—so you can make the best choice for your style and needs.

What Are Bronze and Brass?

Both bronze and brass are metal alloys, meaning they are made from a mixture of different metals. Their main difference lies in their composition and how they react over time.

Metal	Main Composition	Color & Appearance	Durability	Best For
Brass	Copper + Zinc	Warm golden-yellow, similar to gold	Strong, but softer than bronze	Bold statement jewelry, boho designs, and gold-tone alternatives
Bronze	Copper + Tin (sometimes aluminum or nickel)	Deeper reddish-brown with a rich antique finish	Harder and more durable than brass	Rustic, historical, or sculptural jewelry

Brass in Jewelry: Warm & Golden

Why Use Brass?

Brass is loved for its rich, golden color, which makes it a budget-friendly alternative to gold. Because brass contains copper and zinc, its hue can range from bright yellow to deep gold, depending on the ratio of these metals.

Jewelry designers love brass because:

✅ It has a warm, golden hue similar to 14kt gold

✅ It is affordable and durable

✅ It is easier to work with than bronze, making it great for intricate designs

Downsides of Brass Jewelry

⚠️ Can Tarnish: Over time, brass oxidizes and develops a patina (a darker, vintage-like finish). While some people love this aged look, others prefer the bright gold appearance.

⚠️ May Turn Skin Green: Since brass contains copper, it can sometimes react with skin oils and sweat, causing a harmless green tint on the skin.

⚠️ Not Hypoallergenic: People with metal sensitivities may experience irritation from brass, especially if they react to copper or zinc.

💡 How to Care for Brass Jewelry:

• Keep it dry to reduce tarnishing.

• Store it in an anti-tarnish pouch when not in use.

• Use a jewelry polishing cloth or lemon juice to restore shine.

Bronze in Jewelry: Rich, Antique Beauty

Why Use Bronze?

Bronze has a deeper, warmer tone than brass, with a slightly reddish-brown hue due to its higher copper content. It is a harder, more durable metal, making it ideal for sturdier jewelry designs.

Jewelry designers love bronze because:

✅ It has a beautiful, antique-like finish

✅ It is stronger than brass, making it great for sculptural pieces and jewelry with intricate

detailing

✅ It develops a unique patina over time, giving it an aged, timeless look

Downsides of Bronze Jewelry

⚠️ Patina Changes the Color: Bronze darkens and develops a greenish or brown patina as it ages. Some people love this vintage look, while others may prefer to keep it polished.

⚠️ May Cause Skin Discoloration: Due to its higher copper content, bronze can also turn skin green if worn directly on the skin for long periods.

⚠️ Harder to Work With: Bronze is more rigid and tough compared to brass, making it more challenging to shape into delicate designs.

💡 How to Care for Bronze Jewelry:

• Polish with a soft cloth and mild soap to remove oxidation.

• Store in a dry place to slow down patina development.

• If you prefer a polished look, use a clear sealant or wax to preserve its color.

Bronze vs. Brass: Which One Is Right for Your Jewelry?

Choose Brass If You Want:

✔️ A brighter, golden tone similar to gold

✔️ A lighter-weight metal that’s easier to shape

✔️ An affordable and stylish alternative to gold-filled or solid gold

Choose Bronze If You Want:

✔️ A rich, antique look that develops a patina over time

✔️ A stronger, more durable metal that holds shape well

✔️ A material that adds depth and character to artisan or historical-inspired jewelry

Both bronze and brass are fantastic metals for handcrafted jewelry, offering beauty, durability, and affordability. Whether you prefer the bright gold-like glow of brass or the deep, rustic charm of bronze, each metal has its own story to tell in jewelry design.

At our studio, we love incorporating these metals into nature-inspired, handcrafted jewelry, pairing them with gemstones, freshwater pearls, and organic textures.

Which metal do you prefer for your jewelry collection? Let us know in the comments!