Aluminium

Tim Simmons · 7th November 2006, 07:10 AM

For early pieces I think the watch word is "quality" in use of the metal and mixed with other quality materials, as the link mentions. I read from another site about the properties of aluminium that it is the highest metal to take a polish I cannot remember what the word is for this property.

kronckew · 16th November 2006, 06:18 PM

let us not forget that aluminum (or aluminium here in the UK) was considered a precious metal, and cost more than gold up until the invention of and the start of commercial production from the hall process invented in 1886. aluminum is so cheap now we forget that it once was the height of extravagance and ostentation, and it's use on weapons in the mid 1800's might be the sign of a high status item, as long as the craftsmanship supports it. the original link above is echoed in the following:

ref: http://www.world-aluminium.org/history/index.html

this one is particularly interesting: http://www.world-aluminium.org/history/antiquity.html

Tim Simmons · 16th November 2006, 06:46 PM

If it looks good, high status and old with some aluminium, then it probably is. Which is nice to know.

7th November 2006, 07:10 AM	#1
Tim Simmons Member Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: What is still UK Posts: 5,854	For early pieces I think the watch word is "quality" in use of the metal and mixed with other quality materials, as the link mentions. I read from another site about the properties of aluminium that it is the highest metal to take a polish I cannot remember what the word is for this property.

16th November 2006, 06:18 PM	#2
kronckew Member Join Date: Mar 2006 Location: Room 101, Glos. UK Posts: 4,224	let us not forget that aluminum (or aluminium here in the UK) was considered a precious metal, and cost more than gold up until the invention of and the start of commercial production from the hall process invented in 1886. aluminum is so cheap now we forget that it once was the height of extravagance and ostentation, and it's use on weapons in the mid 1800's might be the sign of a high status item, as long as the craftsmanship supports it. the original link above is echoed in the following: ref: http://www.world-aluminium.org/history/index.html this one is particularly interesting: http://www.world-aluminium.org/history/antiquity.html

16th November 2006, 06:46 PM	#3
Tim Simmons Member Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: What is still UK Posts: 5,854	If it looks good, high status and old with some aluminium, then it probably is. Which is nice to know.