"Refinishing a metal lamp", this was the google search that I did to find out how to refinish an old tarnished metal lamp that I got at a thrift store. I realize now that I should have done my search with "how to tell if metal is plated", because all of the refinishing hits were about people who wanted to paint over their metal!
I learned that to test to see if brass is plated, you use a magnet. If it is magnetic, then the metal is plated!
My lamp in the title photo turned out to be solid brass (non magnetic), so I used a slushee of salt and vinegar, some old microfiber cloths and toothbrushes, and a lot of elbow grease to remove the tarnish. To finish it off and add luster, I polished my lamp with brasso (make sure to use it outside or in a well ventilated area, because it has a strong ammonia smell).
i can't wait for my next "find" and I'll make sure to carry a little magnet with me :)