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Ted Mooney, P.E. RET
Pine Beach, NJ

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Acid for darkening brass connectors

How can I darken the bright gold connectors on my crystal chandelier chains.

1. It needs to be SAFE for the crystals
2. I heard that there is some kind of acid one can use.

Thank you for any help.

Patricia Irvin
- Westerville, Ohio
2003

October , 2008

Hi, Patricia. Glass is pretty impervious to most acids (hydrofluoric acid being an exception) and most other chemicals. In fact, many acids are stored in glass bottles.

But what are the "gold connectors" actually made of. I doubt they are solid gold. Maybe they are gold plated? Or maybe they are just generally gold-ish in color, but not made of gold? The problem then becomes that you are asking what solution will turn an unknown mystery metal dark, and that's hard to say.

If they are brass or bronze, then brass darkening solution ⇦this on eBay or Amazon [affil links] should do it. Another, less permanent, approach would be to try a wax rub, (Rub n Buff ⇦this on eBay or Amazon [affil links] )

Regards,

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey

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