How do I tell what metal a piece is made of? I bought some antique bookends from a thrift shop...

NightsWatch · M Best Comment

This is a pair of sailing ship bookends that are cast iron with a bronze finish. They were made by the Gift House Inc. and they are signed BronZMet. The measure 6 inches wide and 6.25 inches high. These bookends are in nice condition with no chips, cracks or damage.

FaeLuna · 31-35, F

Here's a picture of the two bookends, post-scrubbing. I suppose it would have helped at the start.

Bertrand36 · 31-35, M

If using the hand brush is a pain, try a metal brush bit on a rotary tool.

That or test something like CLR or metal cookware cleaner on a small area on the bottom.

goldenorchid · 46-50, F

My husband says, "drill a small hole in it, if it produces grey dust it cast iron if it produces a spiral swarf it's wrought iron, but either can be cleaned as if they were steel"

Mamapolo2016 · F

If it's magnetic, it's not lead or pewter or copper or brass. Almost has to be iron or steel.

Mamapolo2016 · F

I have read that, weirdly, rubbing with a slice of cucumber removes tarnish.

Picklebobble2 · 56-60, M

Use a Q-tip and gently apply Lemon juice or vinegar or Baking Soda or salt.
But only a little at a time and blot with cotton wool.

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dirge

it being ferrous should tell you all you need for cleaning, but I'd consider doing a dry, soft brush clean and leave most of the patina in place, then hit it with some penetrating oil and let it dry in the sun.

Crazychick · 36-40, F

Ask someone who knows what metal is what.

Northerner · 70-79, M

Do you have a photo of it?

Atlotto · M

I personally wouldn't restore them. That could depreciate their value.