Definition: a generic term for base metal used in costume jewelry manufacture; while oftentimes plated with gold or silver, during the 1930s many pieces were left unplated as a cost-saving measure and collectors refer to these pieces as "pot metal" when describing them; pot metal usually has a dull finish akin to pewter when left unplated
Also Known As: base metal
Examples:
Angela learned the term pot metal not only refers to base metal used to make jewelry, but also to unplated pieces from the 1930s.
