宝鼎这种器具起初是在古代作为烹饪用具使用的，但由于古代的金属冶炼技术不发达，且铁矿石的硬度是要比铜高的，适合作为兵器的原材料。所以冶炼出来的铁受到了朝堂的严格管控的，而铜就可以作为宝鼎的制造原材料。
Baoding was originally used as a cooking utensil in ancient times, but due to the undeveloped metal smelting technology in ancient times, and the hardness of iron ore is higher than that of copper, it is suitable for use as raw materials for weapons. So the smelted iron is strictly controlled by the Chaotang, and copper can be used as raw material for Baoding's manufacture.
虽然后来随着饮食的发展，宝鼎已经不再作为烹饪用具制造，但在封建社会铁还是处于管控状态。所以及时是相对富裕的人家想要制造宝鼎来作为祭祀用具，也只能选用昂贵的铜。所以现在我们看到的流传下来的宝鼎大多是以铜为主要材料。
Although Baoding was no longer manufactured as a cooking utensil with the development of diet, iron was still under control in feudal society. So in time, relatively wealthy people want to make Baoding as sacrificial utensils, but also can only choose expensive copper. So now we can see that most of the treasure tripod handed down is made of copper as the main material.