Iron ornaments can enhance décor inside and outside. You’ve likely heard the terms “wrought iron” and “cast iron”, but you may not know the difference between the two. Both can be beautiful and a wonderful addition to your home, but they are actually quite different.

A simple explanation is that wrought iron is metal that has been worked with tools to produce its form. Cast iron, on the other hand, is metal that has been poured into a mold to produce its form. While that is the short version, there is a bit more to the story.

Traditionally, wrought iron was smelted very slowly at a low temperature. As the metal melted, the impurities were removed with a hammer. This is where the term “wrought” (or worked) iron came from. Because wrought iron was melted so slowly and at a high temperature, the result was an iron that was very pure. This iron was strong and could withstand the weather without showing effect of rust or corrosion.

Cast iron was smelted more quickly and at much higher temperatures. This resulted in a less pure form of iron that could not stand up to the elements as well as wrought iron. This iron was poured hot into molds to create various shapes. Cast iron was not only unable to withstand the elements, but it was also very brittle. If a piece of wrought iron was knocked over or hit with a hammer, it would likely break apart.

If wrought iron were treated similarly it would easily be able to withstand the abuse. For this reason, wrought iron has been a popular choice for outdoor uses such as stair railing and gates.

Today, both cast iron and wrought iron are hugely popular for both decorative and practical purposes. Even though other options are available, wrought iron gates are still in demand by people who insist on quality. Metal wall hangings and statues are also popular. While some pieces that can be found in stores today may be made of iron, other metals are often used as well. This may be good news if purchasing a piece of cast metal as the alternative metal used may be stronger and less brittle than true cast iron.

If you have an empty wall in your home, and are worried that adding a painting may compete with or overpower the existing artwork, then a metal wall sculpture is a great option. Neutral in color, it will blend seamlessly with almost any décor.

One thing is certain, and that is that both wrought iron and cast iron can be beautiful. Consider some metal wall hangings for your home, or a cast iron statue for your garden. Both will add charm to your décor.