It’s a question we keep hearing from clients: what is unlacquered brass? The simple answers? Unlacquered brass is a type of brass that does not have a protective lacquer coating. This means that it is exposed to air and touch, which allows it to naturally oxidize and develop a patina over time. The patina can range from a warm, golden tone to a deeper brown or greenish hue depending on the conditions it's exposed to, such as moisture and the oils from human skin. We love unlacquered brass for its living finish that evolves, giving it an old-world charm and a genuine brass look. The art of achieving an aged and weathered look has been gaining immense popularity lately. We love seeing our clients embrace the beauty of imperfection in their homes, especially in new builds. It adds life, charm, and history to an otherwise cold and sterile space.

The aging process of unlacquered brass, also known as the patination process, occurs naturally over time as the brass is exposed to air, moisture, and the oils from human skin. In the above photo are three knobs. Believe it or not, they are all the same exact finish! The far left (shiny) knob is immediately upon purchase, while the middle is within about a year of natural patina, and the right is about three years. There is something about unlacquered brass that feels luxe in a classic-European-city kind of way. It’s beautiful when paired with other modern details to soften the overall look.

Here's a brief overview of how this process unfolds:

Oxidation: When unlacquered brass is exposed to oxygen, it begins to oxidize. This reaction forms a thin layer of patina on the surface of the brass.
Tarnishing: Along with oxidation, brass can react with sulfur compounds in the air, leading to tarnish, which is a darker layer of corrosion on the surface.
Handling and Touch: The oils and acids from human skin can accelerate the tarnishing process and create a unique pattern of patina where the brass is frequently touched.
Environmental Factors: The presence of moisture, temperature changes, and pollutants can also affect the rate and character of the patina that develops.
Color Changes: Initially, unlacquered brass may appear bright and shiny. Over time, it darkens to a rich golden hue and may eventually develop brown, green, or blue tones.
Variability: The patina that develops is unique to each piece of brass and its environment, making each item distinct.
Maintenance: Some people prefer to let the patina develop undisturbed for a vintage look, while others may choose to periodically clean and polish the brass to restore its original luster.

So, what are the pros and cons, you may ask?

Pros:

Aesthetic Appeal: Unlacquered brass offers a timeless and classic look that can enhance the beauty of any space. It adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to your home! Our team at KSI keeps reaching for this finish over and over again. It works with so many different styles!
Aging Process: Over time, unlacquered brass develops a natural patina that gives it a unique charm. This aging process creates an antique-like appearance, which many people find appealing.
Customization: Unlike lacquered brass, unlacquered brass allows for customization. You can choose to leave it as is or apply various finishes, such as wax or oil, to achieve the desired look and level of shine.
Easy Maintenance: Unlacquered brass requires less maintenance compared to lacquered brass. While it will eventually develop a patina, it doesn't require constant polishing or cleaning to maintain its appearance. The beauty of this product is its imperfection.
Durability: Brass is known for its durability, and unlacquered brass is no exception. It can withstand daily use without tarnishing or losing its shine, making it suitable for high-traffic areas or frequently handled items.

Cons:

Tarnishing: Unlacquered brass is more prone to tarnishing compared to lacquered brass. This finish may not be the right choice for you if you prefer to maintain a shiny, polished look. Luckily, we prefer the weathered look of unlacquered, so this doesn’t feel like a con to us at KSI!
Fingerprints and Smudges: Due to its natural finish, unlacquered brass can show fingerprints and smudges more prominently than lacquered brass. If you’re a bit obsessive over clean, shiny brass, you may feel the need to wipe this finish frequently. (but not needed if you want the true patina look)
Corrosion Risk: Unlacquered brass, when exposed to harsh chemicals or acidic substances, may corrode or develop spots. It is essential to avoid using abrasive cleaners or acidic solutions on unlacquered brass surfaces.
Price: In some cases, unlacquered brass may be slightly more expensive than lacquered brass due to its unique characteristics and customization options.