# Bronze

> Bronze is a copper and tin alloy with a dark golden tone, prized for art casting and character-rich handmade jewelry.

- Source: https://www.711grados.com/en/bronze/
- Language: en
- Note: This entry was drafted with the help of AI and is pending review by the author.
- Published: 2026-07-01
- Updated: 2026-07-01
- Translation (es): https://www.711grados.com/es/bronce/
- Author: Sandra Sánchez
- Site: 711 Grados (https://www.711grados.com/)

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Bronze, an alloy of copper and tin, gave its name to an entire age of history and remains a favorite for handmade and sculptural jewelry. Its tone between gold and reddish brown, and the detail it takes when cast, make it a warm alternative to precious metals.

## Properties

- **Composition:** copper with roughly 10-12% tin in classic bronzes; variants use aluminum, silicon or phosphorus.
- **Color:** dark gold or reddish brown; patina deepens it toward browns and greens.
- **Melting point:** roughly 900 to 1000 °C, depending on the alloy.
- **Hardness:** harder and tougher than pure copper.
- **Density:** about 8.8 g/cm³.

## Uses in jewelry

- Lost-wax casting: it reproduces carved wax models faithfully (see [casting](https://www.711grados.com/en/casting/) and [lost-wax casting](https://www.711grados.com/en/lost-wax-casting/)).
- Rings, bangles, pendants and brooches with an archaeological or tribal look.
- Sculptural pieces and reproductions of antique jewelry.
- An affordable alternative to gold for those who want a warm tone.

## Pros and cons

### Advantages

- Harder than copper and wear-resistant.
- Casts with a lot of detail.
- Its natural patina is attractive and can be controlled.

### Limitations

- It darkens and develops patina unless protected.
- It is heavier than most costume-jewelry metals.
- It can irritate sensitive skin, especially if it contains nickel.

## Care and cleaning

- Avoid salt water, chlorine and cleaning products.
- Wipe it with a soft cloth and, to restore shine, use a metal polish.
- If you prefer the aged look, only remove dirt and keep the patina.
- A little wax or clear lacquer fixes the finish.

## See also

- [Copper](https://www.711grados.com/en/copper/)
- [Brass](https://www.711grados.com/en/brass/)
- [Tin and pewter](https://www.711grados.com/en/tin-pewter/)
- [Casting](https://www.711grados.com/en/casting/)