| DEI Document | Feb. 13, 2020 |
| Document Information [Line Items] | |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001104657 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Feb. 13, 2020 |
| Entity Registrant Name | MATERION CORPORATION |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | OH |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Entity File Number | 001-15885 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 34-1919973 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 6070 Parkland Blvd. |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Mayfield Hts. |
| Entity Address, State or Province | OH |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 44124 |
| City Area Code | 216 |
| Local Phone Number | 486-4200 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock, no par value |
| Trading Symbol | MTRN |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
