JeyM

Thanks marc1, I'm mostly concerned with just being able to identify metal that has been galvanized because once it's at that point I don't see how you could tell the difference.

Thanks for the clarification. I'm sorry that I didn't word my post better, I'm just new to blacksmithing and I was also tired but its more just being new. I am also new to forum type websites like this so I wasn't aware of some of the things I should have done before asking my question. What I was trying to say in my question was: I know that it is unsafe to forge galvanized metal because of its coating, however, I also know that over time the coating can break down enough to where the metal is able to rust. If the entirety of the metal is rusted then would enough of the coating have broken down/worn off to allow you to safely forge it. Again sorry for my rookie mistakes.

So I see people talking about how you should stay away from forging galvanized metal, but I know that after a long time it can rust. If it's rusted would it be safe to smelt at that point? thanks