View Single Post
  #8   Report Post  
Posted to rec.crafts.metalworking
Jeff R.[_4_] Jeff R.[_4_] is offline
external usenet poster
 
Posts: 14
Default How to identify pewter


"Ignoramus4705" wrote in message
...
I bought seven grey colored, cast metal drinking cups with handles. I
suspect that they may be pewter, but I am not sure. What is the
easiest way to recognize pewter?

They have a cast mark on the bottom, like FTR or HTR.

thanks

i



Measure its density (SG)

Instructions at: http://mendosus.com/sg.html

This won't identify the actual alloy, but it will certainly eliminate a few.
Less then 7.5 (IIRC) means lead-free.

Aluminium = 2.7
Tin = 7.3
Pretty easy to differentiate.
With minimal care you should be able to return two decimal places of SG -
far more than required.

Got and electronic scale and a tub of water?
(What are you waiting for?)

--
Jeff R.