I've read that you use lacquer thinner to get off the lacquer coating (if there is one) then you let the chandy tarnish naturally. When it gets to the desired patina, wax it to maintain the finish. Now I haven't tried this myself, so take it with a grain of salt.

And you can also try Rub 'n' Buff for a faux antique finish.

Here is a link that might be useful: Rub 'n' Buff

Rub and buff won't stick very well to metal.
The best way is to strip off the lacquer and let it age....will take a month before you see any difference but will eventually tarnish to black if you don't re lacquer it.

Thanks, how do you strip off the lacquer?

I found a product online called "Blacken-It" that is supposed to darken metals by oxidizing them. It's mainly used by hobbyists who build models. I've stripped the lacquer from my steel fireplace surround and next week, after everybody is back at work/ school (I'm nervous about trying this in front of witnesses) I'm going to try it and see what happens!
I used a paint stripper from Lowes to strip the lacquer. It's water based, no fumes or odor, safe to use indoors.

Can't wait to hear how it turns out!

let us know how your fireplace surround turns out!

I have a DR light fixture that is bright brass (or something) that I don't like. Haven't been able to find anything else I like yet to replace it either!

Maybe I could do this to it and then just wait til I find something I really like to replace it down the road.

I have two urn lamps that were shiny brass. I sponged on two different colors of gold craft paint and I think they look great. I will try and post a pic later.

I bought Rustoleum Painters Touch paint in the oil rubbed bronze color and painted over my brass chandelier. It looks really good. They had other metallic colors too.

I've used the aging products often, they are very easy to work with. Results are like magic before your eyes.

There is a clear base metal liquid you paint on first. Then you paint the aging patina wanted. This is not a faux paint, it actually contains a metal process. No stripping needed on many objects I've worked with. Even plastic will take on a metal look.

Link below is for Modern Options which I use. Goes a long way and stores well for other projects. It has been around for at least 20 years.

Here is a link that might be useful: Aging metal Modern Options