Tableware WiKi

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====== Copper & Brass ======

**Copper** and **Brass** are traditional metals valued for their striking warm colors and exceptional thermal properties. In the world of tableware, they are most commonly found in professional cookware, serving platters, chafing dishes, and decorative accents.

While often grouped together, they serve different functional roles: Copper is the gold standard for temperature control, while Brass (an alloy of copper and zinc) is prized for its golden durability.

===== 1. Key Characteristics =====

  * **Thermal Conductivity**: Copper is one of the best conductors of heat, allowing for precise temperature control in sauces and delicate sugar work.
  * **Natural Patina**: Both metals oxidize over time, developing a unique "antique" character. They can be polished to a mirror finish or left to age naturally.
  * **Antimicrobial**: Similar to silver, copper has natural properties that kill bacteria and viruses on contact.
  * **Lining (Tin/Stainless Steel)**: Because raw copper can react with acidic foods, high-quality copper serving pieces are often lined with a thin layer of tin or stainless steel for safety.

===== 2. Functional Differences =====

^ Metal ^ Composition ^ Primary Tableware Use ^
| **Copper** | Pure elemental metal | Cookware, sauce pots, Moscow Mule mugs. |
| **Brass** | Copper + Zinc alloy | Handles, decorative rims, tray stands, and flatware accents. |

===== 3. The Aesthetic Appeal =====

  * **Rustic & Industrial**: Copper brings a warm, farmhouse or industrial vibe to the table.
  * **Vintage Luxury**: Polished brass mimics the look of gold, offering a regal aesthetic at a lower cost.
  * **Mix & Match**: These "warm metals" are perfect for mixing with [[:en:materials:porcelain|Porcelain]] and [[:en:materials:stoneware|Stoneware]] to add depth to a table setting.

===== 4. Care and Maintenance =====

  * **Tarnish Control**: To maintain a bright shine, use a specialized copper/brass cleaner or a natural paste of lemon and salt.
  * **Hand Wash Only**: Never put copper or brass in the dishwasher. The harsh chemicals will strip the finish and can cause permanent pitting.
  * **Dry Immediately**: Water spots can leave permanent marks if not dried with a soft cloth right after washing.
  * **Lining Check**: If your copper piece is tin-lined, it may eventually need "re-tinning" if the lining wears down to the copper.

===== 5. Notable Manufacturers =====

  * **Mauviel 1830** (France) - The world's most iconic manufacturer of professional copper cookware.
  * **Ruffoni** (Italy) - Famous for hand-hammered copper pieces with ornate brass accents.
  * **De Buyer** (France) - Renowned for high-performance copper-stainless steel hybrids.

{{tag>materials metal copper brass professional serving}}