The standard casting wax used in bronze foundries for years, microcrystalline waxes have taken the place of natural waxes such as beeswax because of lower cost and availability. These materials are relatively soft at room temperature, and when warmed may be modeled by hand, otherwise metal and wooden tools are utilized for this purpose. The most commonly used wax for lost wax bronze casting today, because of its warm brown color and lower cost than the other types.