This depends on what style and price point you are looking for. Many manufacturers are leaning more toward resin and polyurethane to keep shipping costs down (from china) in mirrors that have a wood, lacquer or brushed metal "look" on the frames. Depending on the placement and size of the mirror this also works in your favor when hanging a large mirror. Also if you live by the water real metal even powder coated over time will show discoloration. So do not discount these methods as being poor quality all the time. The quality is dependent on the actual finished piece. If you are hoping for a mirror take a good look at the way it is put together. Are the joints clean, no glue or staples showing. Is the mirrors reflective area clean without any dark spots or scratches. If you are looking for a mirror with a vintage look make sure that the finish is smoked or hand painted on the mirror not a stippled sticker:)