QuestionQUESTION: Hello, I have a bowl that is marked "TW" or "JW" KOREA. I believe the bowl was brought home by a soldier. I am trying to determine whether it is brass or gold. Is there a method for me to determine this? Thank you for any help you can give me.
ANSWER: Hello Inga and thank you for your inquiry. You can have your bowl ltested for gold by a professional. They use an acid to do a positive test for karat gold. However, there are several other ways to get an "idea" if your item is gold. Rub the metal between your fingers - if you get a "smell" it is brass. Gold never has an odor to it. You can also try a strong magnet. Gold is not attracted to a magnet. However, for a positive test, I would suggest have a professional do it for you. Hope this helps and good luck !
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QUESTION: Hello, Thank you for your help! Does the "TW" or "JW" (in script) have any meaning of which you know? Kind regards..Inga
AnswerThese initials could be the manufacturer or the export/import company. You might check with your local library to see if there are any books available on Korean culture and brass works. You may find mention of some of the manufacturers there. Sorry I couldn't be of more help on this one.
