[TheForge] Re: [EKMetalsmiths] Re: [medieval-leather] copper alloy

[Sudden Service #5]

`    The reason they call the finds copper alloy is that it is primarily
copper & other metals, usually tin lead, zinc or antimony in various
combinations & not a set percentage.  The metalsmiths in period did not mix
their refined ores in the same blends as we do today or in any set blend
that we could call definitively Brass or Bronze so most archeologist are now
just saying copper alloy unless an item has proven itself to be a specific
alloy that has a commonly defined name.  Check out the analysis of metals
that are on Anders site at:
http://members.chello.se/vikingbronze/vikingbronze.htm
    Have fun I am off to bed.  If any of you are nearby I am having a
gathering of friends on New Years Day to eat some of my cooking, care to
come by?  Drop me a line & I'll send you directions,
Pax,
Olaf of Trollhiemsfjord
(Holliston, MA)
----- Original Message -----
> > Could someone tell me what exactly is copper alloy?  The obvious
> > answer is that it is copper mixed with something else, but does
> > anyone know what?  It is referenced many times in Cameron's Sheaths
> > and Scabbards, but I have been unable to find an explanation of what
> > is in it.
> >
> > Thanks,
> > Kathy