There are four major reasons for plating or coating jewelry pieces, which includes to change the color of the jewelry, to add value to the jewelry using a more expensive metal layer, to prevent the jewelry from corrosion, and to cover soldering seams or other related flaws.
Two popular methods that can be used to achieve these purposes are electroplating and PVD plating. In this guide, we will explain these two methods, how different they are to each other, and which is better for stainless steel.
What is Electroplating Jewelry?
This is a popular method of depositing a thin layer of metal (usually brass, gold, silver, or alloy) onto the surface of a jewelry. It involves immersing the jewelry into a solution containing metal ions, which is then charged with an electric current. This transfers the metal ions to the jewelry, thereby forming a thin coating on the jewelry surface.
Electroplating Process
Electroplating entails a process called “electrolysis.” In this process, the substrate (the jewelry to be plated) is dipped into a metal ions solution. An electrical current is passed through the metal ions, which leads to bonding the metal ions to the substrate. This results in a thin, durable coating.
What is Gold Electroplated Jewelry?
This is simply the deposition of a thin layer of gold onto a jewelry surface. Electroplated gold jewelry is usually done to create a jewelry piece that’s durable and has a gold-like effect.
What is PVD Coating on Jewelry?
PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) coating is an advanced method of applying a thin layer of metal particles on a jewelry surface. It involves using a vacuum chamber to vaporize the jewelry so that the coating metal particles will bond tightly on the jewelry’ surface.
Jewelry PVD Coating Process
PVD whole coating process involves cleaning the substrate (the jewelry to be coated) and inserting it into a sealed vacuum chamber to prevent interference from air molecules. Then, the coating metal (usually titanium, zirconium, or chromium) is placed inside the chamber, where it is heated to gas state before bonding firmly on the jewelry’s surface.
PVD Coating vs. Electroplating: Which is better for Stainless Steel Jewelry?
To be straightforward, physical vapor deposition jewelry is often better than electroplated jewelry, especially for stainless steel pieces. Here’s a detailed comparison:
Durability
PVD coating involves a process that creates a bond at the molecular level, making the metal particles adhere tightly (up to 6 times of electroplating). This results in a harder and more resilient jewelry surface. In addition, PVD coating jewelry includes a TiN layer (titanium nitride), which creates a protective barrier on stainless steel pieces, thereby extending their lifespan and reducing frictions, wear, or tear.
Electroplating, on the other hand, produces thinner coatings that’s applied merely on the jewelry surface. Electroplated jewelries are prone to wear and tear over time, especially if they are exposed to moisture, chemicals, or friction. This difference is also clear when comparing ion plated vs PVD plated jewelry.
Coating Thickness
Even though the PVD-coated layer is generally thinner than the electroplated layer, it bonds firmly to the jewelry surface, ensuring better protection against scratches, water, and environmental factors.
Even though the thickness of electroplated layers may vary depending on the plating process and duration, they cannot offer as much protection as PVD coating.
Hypoallergenic
A notable factor to also consider in PVD coating vs electroplating comparison is hypoallergenic status. PVD coated stainless steel jewelry pieces are generally hypoallergenic because they are made from non-toxic and non-reactive metals, such as titanium, zirconium, and chromium. This makes them a safe option for individuals with metal allergies or sensitive skin.
Electroplated jewelry, on the other hand, may contain reactive metals like nickel or lead. These metals may be allergic to some people, particularly those with sensitive skin. However, electroplated jewelry made with non-reactive metals like gold or silver are hypoallergenic and safe.
Color and Finish
PVD coated jewelry can be customized into a wide variety of colors, including gold, rose gold, blue, black, and other metallic shades. The finish is often matte, satin, or glossy, and the colors are rich & long-lasting.
Electroplating can mimic all kinds of colors, such as electroplated gold jewelry, silver jewelry, and platinum jewelry. They usually have a shiny, luxurious finish but their appearance tends to dull and fade over time.
Environmental Impact
Another major highlight in PVD coating vs electroplating process is their effects on the environment. The production of PVD coated jewelry is more environmentally friendly, as it releases fewer harmful chemicals and waste.
Electroplating production, on the other hand, involves the use of harmful chemicals and toxic solutions like cyanides and acids. If not properly disposed, they can cause pollution and disturb the environment’s sustainability.
In summary, PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) coating surpasses electroplating on stainless steel jewelry in terms of:
- PVD coating offers superior hardness and durability compared to electroplating.
- They provide exceptional wear and corrosion resistance, while electroplating wears off quickly with frequent use.
- In addition, PVD coating maintains its appearance over time and is more environmentally sustainable, aligning with growing consumers’ needs.
- Although PVD plating has a higher initial cost, it proves more economical due to its longevity and lower maintenance needs.
Here is a comparison table of PVD Coating and Electroplating:
| PVD Coating | Electroplating | |
| Process | A vacuum coating process that involves applying a thin layer of metallic particles onto the jewelry surface | Use an electric current to deposit metal ions onto a conductive surface |
| Durability | A hard surface and stronger coating with superior resistance to wear and corrosion | Prone to wear and tear under continuous usage and high friction conditions |
| Coating Thickness | The high-energy deposition process makes the coating adhere tightly | The thickness and consistency of electroplating is a little bit hard to control |
| Color and Finish | A wide variety of colors and finishes, such as gold, rose, black, or blue | Mimic all types of colors and finishes |
| Cost and Efficiency | Generally more expensive, especially for smaller production runs, but can be highly efficiency for mass production | Cheaper, especially for mass production |
| Environment Impact | Environmentally friendly, producing fewer or no harmful chemicals and waste | Involves toxic chemicals and hazardous waste |
Why Electroplating on Stainless Steel Jewelry is More Prone to Wear Off?
Electroplating is a low-energy electrical process. The metal ions arrive at the jewelry with relatively low energy, thereby depositing on the surface softly. Hence, why the plated layer on the jewelry surface wears off and tarnishes quickly.
While this method may be suitable for brass or silver jewelry, stainless steel jewelry is hard and highly unyielding, which is why PVD works best.
Quick Facts about Gold Plated/PVD Coating Stainless Steel Jewelry
Does Gold Plated Stainless Steel Jewelry Tarnish?
In all honesty, gold plated stainless steel will eventually tarnish, but the hardness and rigidity of the stainless steel base will slow down the tarnishing speed. PVD gold plated jewelry possesses exceptional resistance against tarnishing, thereby extending the jewelry’s lifespan.
Does 18K Gold Plated Stainless Steel Tarnish?
18K gold plating stainless steel jewelry won’t tarnish quickly with proper care. Aside from the stainless steel base toughness, the applied gold layer is 75% pure gold and 25% of other metals like copper, silver, or zinc, which add extra strength to the jewelry.
An 18K PVD gold plated jewelry is highly valued for its lustrous finish and longevity, however it can be quite expensive.
How Long Does Stainless Steel Jewelry Last?
It depends on how well the jewelry is maintained. Generally, stainless steel jewelry can last for 3 or more years. While all stainless steel jewelry pieces will still tarnish at the end of the day, their longevity is much higher than other metals like gold, silver, or rhodium.
How Long Does Gold Plating/PVD Coating Jewelry Last?
How long gold plated or PVD coated jewelry lasts depends on the quality of the base metal, the thickness of the applied metal, and how often the jewelry is worn. Normally, a professionally designed PVD coated stainless steel jewelry can last for decades, even as far as a lifetime if maintained properly.
Is Gold Plated Stainless Steel Jewelry Waterproof?
Yes, gold plated stainless steel jewelry is waterproof, especially when plated with the PVD technique. This technique creates a robust bond between the metal coating and the stainless steel base, making it highly resistant to water.
Key Takeaway
Ultimately, PVD coating surpasses electroplating when considering their durability, coating thickness, hypoallergenic properties, color & finish, and environmental impact.
While electroplated jewelry can mimic any color and appearance, it’s prone to tarnishing and wear. But PVD coating offers a consistent finish with great resistance to tarnishing and wear.