Ask the Experts Metal Finish Q&A

What does oxidated and anodized mean? Thank you.

- Kathy

Oxidated is really another way of saying oxidized. Oxidized means metals are treated with a chemical that simulated the natural occurrence of oxides on metal. Oxidizers create a darkened or antiqued finish. Both Liver of Sulfur™ and Patina Gel are oxidizers.

Anodized refers to surface color that is applied to metal with an electric current. This process coats the metal and offers a wonderful palette of surface color. Care must be taken with anodized metals, such as aluminum, titanium and niobium, so the color is preserved; use covered tools so you do not mar the surface color.

- Sandra Lupo, Metalsmith, Jewelry Artist and Instructor