Brass is a copper alloy in which, in addition to the main component copper, zinc is used and ensures the bright, golden yellow colour of the brass. The more zinc is present in the brass, the brighter the final alloy. Brass with a zinc content of more than 36% has a very light, almost white colour; with less than 20%, the metal is dark and brownish. Brass is one of the most common copper alloys and its base is always formed by copper and zinc. In addition to these two main components, other metals can also be added to the alloy in a lower ratio than zinc, depending on which properties are to be influenced. As brass is non-magnetic, it is suitable for the manufacture of special tools and is used where electrical conductivity must be ensured. Brass has been known for more than 3500 years and was used early on to make cult, household and jewellery objects. Historical cauldrons and cups made of brass attest to the long history of this alloy. Brass types such as gold brass, table brass and talmigold are still used today in the manufacture of jewellery and decorative items as well as musical instruments and watches.
