All our fixtures are crafted from solid brass and copper. Because most of our exterior lanterns are unlacquered, aside from the CV and RT, the finishes will naturally begin to oxidize when exposed to the elements. Both metals will darken over time, though copper is more prone to developing a verdigris patina than brass. This aging process can be accelerated by factors such as acidic rain, air pollution, UV exposure, and salt in the air.
The finishes we offer are below.
Raw Brass (RWB)
Antique Brass (AB)
Oil Rubbed Brass (ORB)
Raw Copper (RWC)
Antique Copper (AC)
Blackened Brass (DAB)
Blackened Copper (DAC)
Antique Copper Verde (ACV)
Copper Verde (CV)
Rust (RT)
- RWB and RWC do not have a coating over the finish and therefore will darken.
- AB, AC and ORB are oil-rubbed finishes. The oil protects the finish during shipping. Once the oil evaporates, the finish will start to darken. To prolong the finish, we suggest rubbing the fixture periodically with light-weight motor oil.
- DAB and DAC do not have a coating over the finish. The metal is darkened to a dark charcoal color. Over time, the color will deepen.
- ACV does not have a coating over the finish. The copper metal is darkened and then spots of verde are applied. Over time, the color will deepen.
- CV and RUST have a light coating of lacquer applied. The metal is darkened to a charcoal color and then a chemical wash is applied. The CV looks like a green wash and the RUST looks like a wash of browns, yellows and golds.
To clean your fixtures, we recommend gently dusting the metal with a soft, dry cloth on a regular basis. If additional cleaning is needed, use a mild soap-and-water solution and wipe carefully. For the glass components, a standard glass cleaner is suitable, but take care to avoid contact with the metal surfaces, as the cleaner may affect the finish.
All finishes are hand-applied; therefore, variations will occur.
Please note the coating produced during the brass/copper oxidation process can run off during rains and could stain siding or pathways.
If fixtures are going to be exposed to salt air, we suggest choosing a brass finish. To keep salt build up to a minimum, clean the lantern periodically with a mild soap and water mixture and then apply a light-weight motor oil over the finish.
We do not guarantee any finish when exposed to salt environments.