This post is a response to blog user- dresspark as well as for everyone. It'll lay out the method i personally find best in keeping the surfaces of brass Zippo lighters & any brass objects from deterioration.
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Brass is a copper and Zinc alloy. It is an oxidative material that produces surface tarnishes called patina, when exposed to moisture or the elements. As patina accumulates, brass surfaces discolors into an unsightly greenish/brownish appearance.
As a matter of fact, Zippo lighters casings are mostly made of brass except for some models being precious metals or copper etc.
Chromed models have their raw brass casings dipped into electromagnetic solutions during the chroming process. Solid brass models, use pretty much the same casings but coated with a protective substance before boxing. Thus their lasting shine.
An annoying find with some brand new casings however. Taking a look inside after removing the insert, some may have a brown-reddish discoloration down the bottom. Perhaps after dipping the casings into the chroming solutions during manufacturing, not all solutions are dried complete. Rusts therefore could have formed.
Yet that thankfully doesn't affect the lighter's presentation. Solid brass casings will nonetheless turn dull no matter what, becoming unattractive in apperance. Hence i'll present a preferred method of keeping these 'High Polished Brass' surfaces shiny
Requisites
-Your Brass lighter or any unpolished objects.
- Brasso Metal polish (Because it doesn't wear-out surfaces)
- A soft towel/rag or polishing cloth
(Zippo's care manual suggests using Scotch-Brite pads on brushed brass surfaces. Which I dare not)
Shake the container to mix the solution well. Apply some Brasso liquid onto your cloth, then rub in circular motions.
Tarnishes are quickly removed, returning your artifects back to its glory
What about displaying/storing your Brass Zippo longer in it's renewed look?
Here each collectible lighter is slipped into a polythene sleeve, which is folded and taped at it's opening. This'll greatly minimize exposure to moisture & all the worrying elements!
Last but not least. . . Peal off every orange seals & be sure to remove the flint from your lighter if you decide not to use it for a while, or EVER!
Hope these tips help a little. Keep a mirrored shine always!
thank you so much for your post! :)
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