What is pot metal in jewellery?
By Jared James · Last updated 21 May 2026
Definition
Pot metal is a broad informal term for alloys made from a mixture of low-cost metals, typically including combinations of zinc, lead, tin, copper and aluminium, with no precious metals present. In jewellery it was historically used for inexpensive costume pieces and decorative hardware, particularly during the early twentieth century when other metals were scarce. Pot metal is relatively easy to cast into complex shapes, but it is brittle, prone to cracking and does not respond well to soldering or repair, so pieces made from it often deteriorate over time.
Frequently asked questions
- Is pot metal used in jewellery today?
- Pot metal itself is rarely specified today, though cheap zinc and zinc-alloy castings used in costume and fashion jewellery fill a similar role. Higher-quality fashion jewellery now tends to use zinc alloy, brass or stainless steel as the base.
- Can pot metal jewellery be repaired?
- Pot metal is notoriously difficult to solder because its composition varies and it often contains metals with different melting points. Most jewellers avoid repairing it, and pieces that crack or break are usually impossible to restore properly.
- How can you tell if jewellery is pot metal?
- Pot metal pieces are often unusually light or unusually heavy for their size, may show white or grey corrosion, and typically have no precious metal hallmark. They often feel more brittle than brass or sterling silver and may show a gritty texture under plating that has worn away.
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