BRONZE MEMORIALS
Bronze Memorials are available in a choice of three finishes each with its own specific borders, design, and personalization.

Aging of Bronze

     Bronze is the perfect choice for your memorial because it is a metal whose beauty not only last through the ages but evolves from the sheen of newly polished cast metal to a warm patina.
     This process, called the aging of bronze, is what makes bronze such a unique, enduring and appreciated metal. In fact, bronze has been chosen for great works of art because artists know the beauty of their creations will be enhanced as the bronze transforms.
     Over time, the surface color of bronze changes from golden to light brown to darker tones before acquiring the ultimate greenish cast—sometimes called verdigris. This is the result of bronze being exposed to the natural elements.
     Because the aging process takes time and depends on many special conditions, a permanent patina may require years to develop. When it does occur, the patina itself is a natural protective covering. This sets bronze apart from other metals that under the same exposure would waste away.
     Although patina is a long-lasting final protective finish, your memorial can be restored to the original finish at any time.

Care & Maintenance

     Your Matthews bronze memorial is protected by our exclusive Diamond Shield Protective Coating—the most durable protective coating we ever made. It was especially formulated for bronze surfaces to guard against industrial and environmental pollutants as well as chemical fertilizers.
     While all bronze memorials will patina over time, you can help prolong the finish on your memorial with proper care.
     Water and a mild soap/detergent is sufficient for cleaning your memorial, but we recommend Matthews Diamond Shield Protective Polish for added protection and the best results. Diamond Shield Protective Polish was developed by Matthews chemists, the same people who developed the Diamond Shield protective coating. Many tests have been conducted to ensure that Diamond Shield Protective Polish is an effective cleaner and the perfect complement to Matthews Diamond Shield finish.
     Do not use abrasive cleaners, strong penetrating chemicals, or solvents on your memorial. Oil and wax coatings are not needed and have limited protective qualities.
     As your memorial begins to patina over time, it can be restored to its original finish through a refinishing process. Ask your counselor for details.