Posted by lacquer vs. silver on February 09, 2004 at 21:18:28:
In Reply to: Mirafone F tuba finish classification posted by Chris on February 09, 2004 at 18:26:22:
lacquer is simply the clearcoat finish over the brass (yellow or gold) that keeps it from tarnishing easily, and prevents your hands from turning green/black/whatever. As silver plate tends not to react to skin as easily, it almost never has lacquer applied over it. But it still tarnishes, and needs periodic cleaning, just as unlacquered brass would.
Unlacquered brass is believed by many to be more resonant than the lacquer covered metal. Over time, it will develop a patina (hopefully spelled correctly) -- a "tarnished" color change that becomes duller and darker. Some folks really like the effect.
HTH