The Secret Life of Copper and Brass
Written by Melissa Lauana Carter for Heirloom Art Co.
Our beloved earth supplies us with materials that are both beautiful and handy. Sometimes, that handiness slips under our noses, however. Over centuries, brass and copper have held the position of being the best materials for kitchenware, standing the test of time and fluctuating, flashy styles. As we have acquired more copper and brass pieces at Heirloom Art Co., we have learned that they not only serve as captivatingly lovely materials but also possess uniquely useful qualities.
Copper:
Copper is believed to be the first metal humans discovered over 10,000 years ago! Our favorite magical quality of copper is its antibiotic nature. Copper is one of the few metals that can break down the specific proteins found in bacteria, making it a natural defender against germs. Copper is also one of the best handlers of heat. Instead of fighting heat as most metals do, copper has become a friend to it and is very responsive to even the slightest change in temperature. So, when you turn the heat up or down on your stove, copper will follow suit, allowing for more fine-tuned cooking and will help you avoid overcooking. This fine metal also distributes heat evenly throughout pots or pans, making for an even cook. In almost every Michelin three-star restaurant, copper cookware can be found.
We have learned that copper is also extremely durable and resistant to corrosion. Normal metals will rust as they oxidize, but copper develops a protective layer as it oxidizes. Copper is a trace mineral which means it is an essential element in a good human diet. In 1980, the National Research Council even set a daily dietary recommendation for copper intake for infants and adults. Any water or food cooked in a copper kitchen item will have a hint of that mineral. So, not only will you have a clean and even cook, but you'll also be receiving health benefits! Additionally, copper kitchenware has a timeless look. Whether it be a copper tea kettle, copper teapot, or copper pots and pans, your kitchen will exude class and warmth. Copper will take care of you for a lifetime. Explore our vintage copper kitchenware line to find a life-long kitchen companion.
How to Care for Copper:
1. Lemon juice and baking soda make for the perfect copper cleaning solution. Polish a bit of that onto any copper piece you have or even just rub a lemon wedge on it. Rinse with water and dry with a soft cloth after.
2. Avoid putting copper kitchenware in the dishwasher.
3. White vinegar and table salt also do the trick when it comes to cleaning copper. Mix the two into a paste and apply to the copper piece. Buff off with a soft cloth and rinse.
Brass:
In Old English the Latin word ‘aes’ means bronze. That word slowly morphed into ‘brass’ over the years which is why ‘brass’ now means money. Brass, as copper’s cousin, has fulfilled its role as a clean and healthy kitchenware material as well as finding its place in other spheres of the home. Brass jewelry boxes, brass door knobs, and brass house numbers and keys have been scattered throughout the world for centuries. Brass has stuck around for the same reasons as copper; antibacterials. What would be the best material for a door knob? Something that would naturally resist germs!
Brass also possesses a rare quality of anti-odorism. It does not absorb flavors like most metals used in the kitchen do. This makes it easy to clean and creates exponential longevity. As food is cooked in brass dishes, the brass releases natural oils that can even enhance the flavors of the dish. Just like copper, brass has incredible thermal conductivity. It is incredibly malleable yet strong. That is why it is the best material for jewelry boxes, instruments, or other intricately designed objects. It can be spread thin yet hold its form. We have fallen in love with brass over the years and have tried to incorporate it in every way possible here at Heirloom Art Co. Some of our favorites are the brass horns, brass frames, brass pepper mills, and the brass toast stands. Explore more of our brass collection here!
How to Care for Brass:
1. Lemon and salt will be your best bet when it comes to cleaning brass. A tablespoon of salt and lemon juice added to warm water will do the trick. Once the salt is dissolved, soak the brass piece in the solution. Rinse and dry with a nonabrasive towel.
2. Olive oil is also a magic ingredient in cleaning brass. Rub a thin layer of olive oil on your brass piece and then rinse it with a cloth.
3. Avoid dishwashing brass kitchenware.
Written by Melissa Lauana Carter for Heirloom Art Co.