Photoetched or photoengraved magnesium dies are typically lower in initial cost than copper and are used for some of the same hot stamping applications. Magnesium can hold fine detail, though not as well as copper due to its comparative softness. This softness also means magnesium doesn’t have the same durability and longevity over long runs as copper or brass. When magnesium dies are used, it is typically for cost savings on short production runs.