How can I tell if it's real brass?

How can you tell if it's real brass involves several tests, as real brass is solid copper and zinc alloy with heavy weight and distinct properties, unlike brass-plated steel or plastic. First, check weight, real brass is heavy, solid brass faucet like Newport Brass or Chicago Faucets feels heavy, while fake brass-plated plastic feels light. Second, check color, real brass has warm yellow-gold color throughout, even when scratched, while brass-plated steel shows silver steel underneath when scratched. Third, magnet test, real brass is non-magnetic, so magnet will not stick, while brass-plated steel will attract magnet because steel is magnetic. Fourth, scratch test in hidden area, scratch lightly, real brass shows same brass color inside, plated shows different metal. Fifth, sound test, tap real brass, it has dull thud, not high-pitched ring like steel. Sixth, check markings, real brass often stamped solid brass or brass. Seventh, price, real brass faucets cost $150 to $1200, fake brass-plated costs $20 to $50. Eighth, professional test, use acid test or X-ray fluorescence. For faucets, brands like Newport Brass, Chicago Faucets, and Symmons are solid brass, while cheap Glacier Bay may be brass-plated zinc. So tell real brass by weight, magnet non-magnetic, same color when scratched, heavy, and solid brass markings.