Brass offers unbeatable value and design freedom, but it needs proper plating to perform at retail quality. Understanding both sides helps brands position it correctly.
The Pros
Brass is affordable at scale, easy to cast into intricate shapes, and takes plating beautifully. It is the backbone of fast-fashion and costume jewelry for good reason.
The Cons
Without a quality plating barrier, brass can tarnish and may cause skin reactions in sensitive wearers. The cons are manageable with lead-free alloy and thick, sealed PVD finishing.