Wrought iron is a confusing term that refers to both a type of metal and a process of formation. More traditionally, wrought iron is a variety of iron, with additives that make it twistable with a low corrosion rate. However, manufacture of this type of iron has been limited to Europe since 1969, because it is very expensive to make and fell out of fashion. More likely, when someone says “wrought iron,” they refer to a forged (not truly wrought) iron that resembles the former in appearance, but is made out of steel. This decorative iron creates reproductions for patio furniture, window screens, and custom fencing.

Authentic wrought iron differs from steel in that it is impregnated with tiny slivers of iron silicate known as “slag.” When distributed as fibers, the slag changes the chemical properties of the iron enough to create a new and beneficial metal. We value wrought iron for strength under tensile pressure, resistance to corrosion, malleability, and how well it keeps a finish. Most metals, when corroding, exhibit ugly patches of discolored rust. But wrought iron distributes the rust into a beautiful dappled coppery or brownish finish that appeals to people’s sense of age.

We still have many antique examples of wrought iron on window grates, balconies, doors, and other architectural elements from as far back as the Romans. This ancient, royal decor from before the 18th century was made out of wrought iron from a charcoal fire. Not until “puddled” iron was possible through mass production did wrought iron become popular among common people. In the 21st century, Britain’s blacksmiths are experiencing a renaissance in wrought iron work with supplies from scrap metal.