At home metallurgical tests?

[FB49]

I'm still really new to metal detecting (I've only been out 4 times since Christmas) and was wondering what kinds of metallurgical testing can be done at home to determine if a heavily corroded piece of metal is brass, silver, copper, lead, gold, etc. Thanks,

 

[jkline]

Anything that is 'heavily corroded' probably isn't of any value. Silver, copper and lead can oxidize but are easy to distinguish; gold will always look like gold. I suppose if you are based in Europe you might find Electrum, which tarnishes too, but stateside that's a pretty remote possibility.

 

[bootyhoundpa]

A magnet,the weight of an object and color of the corrosion can give a good idea as to composition..

 

[Florida Son]

Old silver salt beach coins can be heavily corroded. Locals used to call them oreos.

 

[u2robert]

After a short time the look , weight, patina, a little scratch test will be second nature.
But be advised: Never throw anything away till you are a 100% positive of what it is.

 

[silvercoinboy]

I have an XRF gun (for another business). It gives detailed analysis in 20 seconds.