Brass is one of the most timeless and luxurious materials in interior design. But not all brass finishes are the same ,and if you’re looking for authenticity, character, and lasting beauty, unlacquered brass is the way to go.
At Atlas Finest, we proudly specialize in 100% unlacquered brass products ,from elegant curtain rods to handcrafted wall hooks ,All made to age gracefully and elevate your interiors with warmth and heritage. In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about unlacquered brass, how it differs from lacquered brass, and why it’s the preferred choice for refined, meaningful interiors
What Is Lacquered Brass?
Lacquered brass is brass coated with a transparent protective layer called lacquer. This lacquer seal acts as a shield, protecting the brass underneath from exposure to air, moisture, and dirt.
Key Features of Lacquered Brass
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Protection Against Tarnishing: The lacquer prevents oxidation, meaning your brass will keep its bright, golden shine without darkening or developing a patina.
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Low Maintenance: Because the protective layer blocks fingerprints, oils, and dust, lacquered brass is much easier to maintain.
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Consistent Appearance: Lacquered brass retains a smooth, shiny surface that stays consistent over time.
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Durability: The lacquer also helps protect against minor scratches and wear, making lacquered brass a great choice for high-use items like door handles or kitchen hardware.
What Is Unlacquered Brass?
Unlacquered brass, sometimes called raw or natural brass, is untreated brass without any protective coating. While initially shiny, it will naturally oxidize over time, developing a warm patina that darkens the metal and gives it a vintage or antique look.
Key Features of Unlacquered Brass
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Natural Patina Development: The surface will gradually change color, developing rich tones ranging from golden to brown or greenish hues.
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Authentic, Rustic Appeal: The aging process creates a unique character and texture that many collectors and designers find appealing.
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Requires Regular Care: If you want to maintain the original bright brass look, unlacquered brass requires periodic polishing.
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More Susceptible to Tarnish and Corrosion: Without a protective lacquer, exposure to moisture and air accelerates oxidation.
Why Atlas Finest Chooses Only Unlacquered Brass
At Atlas Finest, we believe home decor should tell a story. That’s why we’ve chosen to work exclusively with unlacquered brass, a material that ages with grace, reflects its environment, and becomes more beautiful with use.
Each piece in our collection ,from curtain rods to brass hooks — is made to last a lifetime and develop a patina that makes it uniquely yours.
Whether you love antique elegance or minimalist earth tones, unlacquered brass adapts to your style without ever looking artificial or mass-produced.
Where to Use Unlacquered Brass
Our customers around the world use Atlas Finest unlacquered brass products to add character, contrast, and sophistication to their spaces. Here are some perfect applications:
1. Curtain Rods and Brackets
Add instant elegance to your windows with our solid unlacquered brass rods. Whether paired with linen curtains or heavy drapes, they add a refined, warm glow that complements both modern and classic interiors.
2. Wall Hooks and Racks
Our best-selling brass hooks age beautifully with daily use — perfect for entryways, bathrooms, or kitchens.
3. Bathroom Accents
Use unlacquered brass in open shelving, towel bars, or pot racks. Over time, it develops that perfect “old money” kitchen look with a natural patina.
Caring for Your Brass: Tips from Atlas Finest
Whether you choose lacquered or unlacquered brass, proper care will extend the life and beauty of your pieces.
Caring for Lacquered Brass
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Clean with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and fingerprints.
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Avoid abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals that can damage the lacquer layer.
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If the lacquer wears off, the brass underneath may tarnish; consider professional refinishing.
Caring for Unlacquered Brass
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Polish regularly using brass cleaner or natural remedies like a mixture of lemon juice and baking soda.
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After polishing, rinse with water and dry thoroughly to prevent water spots.
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Apply a thin layer of wax if you want to slow down oxidation but still keep a natural look.
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Remember, some people embrace the patina as part of the brass’s charm — in this case, minimal maintenance is needed.
Final Thoughts: Making Your Brass Choice
Choosing between lacquered and unlacquered brass comes down to your personal style and how much maintenance you’re willing to commit to. Both finishes have their unique appeal:
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Lacquered brass offers convenience and consistent shine for a polished look.
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Unlacquered brass tells a story through its natural aging, adding soul and character.
At Atlas Finest, we invite you to explore our diverse brass collections to find the perfect pieces that bring elegance and personality to your home. Visit atlasfinest.com to browse our selection and experience the art of brass decor.