Shree Ganesh Metals
How to recognise
Pure and Authentic
Brass and Copper?
In the market today, where Brass and Copper items are mass-produced and manufactured at the same time, it is so essential to know how to recognise the authenticity and purity of these metal items. No matter what you are buying, be it kitchen ware, spiritual use, or something simply for aesthetic purposes, recognising the genuineness of these items ensures durability, value and health benefits.
Perform the Tap test
Check the weight
Conduct a Magnet Test
Conduct a Scratch Test
Look at the Detailing and Craftmanship
Perform the Tap test
Tap on the product gently.
- An authentic Brass metal will create a clear, deep and resonant sound.
- While a Pure Copper metal will create a soft ringing sound when tapped on it.
- Keep in mind, dull or muted sound means the item is fake or is alloyed.
Check the weight
Brass and Copper metals, when pure, are heavy. If you notice that the item in your hand feels unusually lighter compared to a similar sized item you’ve seen before, there’s a high chance that this one may be mixed with cheaper or lighter materials.
Conduct a Magnet Test
As a fact you should know, pure Copper and Brass items are non-magnetic. If the item you are checking the purity of sticks to a magnet, it likely contains iron or another base metal and is not 100% pure.
Conduct a Scratch Test
Gently scratch an area with your nails or using a pin of the item – preferably the spot that won’t show. If the colour is the same where you scratched, the item is genuine. But if it appears to be different from the top layer, it is either alloyed or plated.
Look at the Detailing and Craftmanship
You need to look for even finishes, textures and clean joints on edges or handles. Genuine and authentic items often carry traditional marks of craftsmanship, especially in puja utensils or other puja items.
Why does purity and authenticity matter?
Genuine metals offer longevity, safety for consumption purposes and they align with the traditional practices, beyond just aesthetic values. Impurity in such metals may make them tarnish in no time, leach harmful compounds, and carry coatings or layers that aren’t safe for use.
When you invest in authentic brass and copper items, you choose products that carry meaning and last generation creating a legacy, ours and yours. Know what you buy, because true quality never hides.