Copper vs brass material differences — tea kettle and tray in Gold (Brass) finish by Natuross

Copper vs Brass: Material Differences Explained

June 2, 2026 IBRAHIM GULSUN

Both copper and brass are available as Natuross backsplash materials, and both are real metal — hand-hammered, mounted on aluminum composite backing, sealed with UV-resistant lacquer. The difference is in the base metal itself, and that difference affects the color, the character, and the finishes available. This article explains what copper and brass actually are, how they differ, and how to choose between them.

Tea kettle and tray brass backsplash — Gold (Brass) finish, natural brass

What Is Copper?

Copper is a pure metal — element 29 on the periodic table. In its natural state it has a distinctive reddish-orange color that is immediately recognizable. It is one of the oldest metals used by humans, with a history in decorative and functional metalwork spanning thousands of years.

Copper is the base material for all Natuross copper finishes: Natural Copper, Brown Copper, Green Copper, Blue Copper, Fire Copper, Black Copper, and Copper–Black Details. It is also the base material for the silver-finish panels — Silver, Silver–Copper, Silver–Black — where the copper sheet is silver-plated after forming.

Copper is a relatively soft metal, which makes it ideal for hand-hammering — it responds well to the forming process and holds the relief detail clearly. It is also naturally antimicrobial, though this property is sealed under the lacquer in a finished panel.

Celtic Tree of Life copper backsplash — Natural Copper finish

What Is Brass?

Brass is an alloy — a mixture of copper and zinc, typically in proportions of roughly 70% copper to 30% zinc, though this varies. The addition of zinc changes the color from copper’s reddish-orange to a warm yellow-gold tone. Brass is slightly harder than pure copper and has a brighter, more golden surface in its natural state.

Brass is the base material for all Natuross gold finishes: Gold/Brass (natural brass), Antique Gold (aged brass), Gold–Black Details (brass background with black relief), and Black–Gold Details (dark background with gold brass relief). The Silver–Gold Details finish uses a brass panel with a silver-plated background, leaving the raised relief in natural brass.

Because brass contains copper, it shares many of copper’s working properties — it responds well to hand-hammering and holds relief detail clearly. The gold tone of brass is entirely natural, not a coating or plating.

Tea kettle and tray brass backsplash — Silver–Gold finish

The Key Differences

Color: Copper is reddish-orange. Brass is warm yellow-gold. This is the most immediately visible difference and the primary reason to choose one over the other. If you want warmth with a reddish tone, copper. If you want warmth with a golden tone, brass.

Finishes available: Copper panels can be finished in the full range of copper patinas — natural, brown, green, blue, fire, black — as well as silver-plated finishes. Brass panels are available in gold and antique gold finishes, and in two-tone combinations with black or silver. The patina finishes (green, blue, fire) are specific to copper and are not available on brass.

Kitchen style: Copper finishes — particularly Natural Copper and Brown Copper — suit farmhouse, rustic, and traditional kitchens. Silver–Copper suits the widest range of styles. Brass finishes suit traditional, Mediterranean, French country, and warm contemporary kitchens where a golden tone is part of the design palette. Brass pairs naturally with warm wood cabinets, cream and ivory tones, and unlacquered brass hardware.

Character: Copper has a warmer, more organic character. Brass has a more formal, refined character. Both are premium materials — the choice between them is a matter of the tone and mood you want the kitchen to have.

Tea kettle and tray brass backsplash — Gold–Black Details finish

What They Have in Common

Both copper and brass Natuross panels are made the same way: 24 gauge real metal sheet, hand-hammered to create raised decorative relief, mounted on a rigid aluminum composite backing, approximately ¼ inch (6mm) thick overall, sealed with a professional-grade UV-resistant lacquer. Both are water, heat, and grease resistant. Both are suitable for kitchens, bathrooms, wet areas, fireplaces, and outdoor installations. Both weigh approximately 2.1 lb per square foot.

The material difference is in the base metal and the color it produces. Everything else — the construction, the quality, the durability, the installation — is identical.

Tea kettle and tray brass backsplash — Black–Gold Details finish

Which Should You Choose?

If your kitchen has warm wood cabinets, cream or ivory tones, or brass hardware — and you want a golden, refined warmth — brass is the natural choice. If your kitchen has white, gray, or dark cabinets, or if you want the classic copper warmth with reddish-orange tones or patina finishes — copper is the right material.

If you are unsure, send a photograph of your kitchen via live chat. Ibrahim will recommend the material and finish most likely to work in your specific space.

Questions? Start a live chat — Ibrahim responds personally.