Quick Answer
To keep your aluminum dice free of scratches and wear, store them in a foam-lined case, clean them with a soft cloth, and avoid rolling them on hard surfaces like stone or glass.
Why Aluminum Dice Are Prone to Scratches
Aluminum is a relatively soft metal compared to steel or zinc alloys. This makes it lightweight and easy to roll, but also more vulnerable to dings and scuffs from everyday use. Even a single roll on a rough tabletop can leave a visible mark.
The trade-off is worth it for many players who prefer the lighter weight and the feel of aluminum in their hands. The key is knowing how to handle them so the beauty lasts.
Common Wear Patterns and What They Mean
Surface scratches are the most frequent issue. They usually come from contact with hard materials like ceramic dice trays, stone tabletops, or even other metal dice stored loose in a bag. Edge wear happens when dice repeatedly hit the same corner during rolls.
If you see fine lines across the faces, that's normal cosmetic wear. Deep gouges or chipped edges suggest a harder impact or contact with a very abrasive surface.
Diagnosis: Scratch & Wear Check
- Symptom: Fine, shallow lines across the dice faces or edges that appear after rolling on a hard surface.
- Likely Cause: Rolling on stone, glass, ceramic, or bare wood without a soft surface. Aluminum is softer than these materials.
- Corrective Action: Switch to a felt-lined dice tray or a soft mat for rolling. For storage, keep each die in a foam-lined case or a soft pouch, and never mix them loose with other metal or resin dice. If scratches are already present, they are cosmetic and do not affect fairness. Polishing is not recommended as it can remove the finish.
- When to Stop or Choose Another Option: If you frequently roll on hard surfaces and do not want to change your setup, consider a harder metal like zinc alloy or steel instead of aluminum. These resist scratches better but are heavier.
Product Spotlight
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