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Gold in piercing jewellery – PVD coat or assay?
Piercing jewellery is a unique way to express your individuality. Of the various options available on the market, gold earrings are the most popular. However, real gold is not friendly to our wallet…, so in this article we take a closer look at alternative options! Can titanium earrings also be coloured gold? What exactly is a PVD coating? Finally, we will also give you a hint… how to recognise real gold!
How do you achieve a gold colour for piercing jewellery?
Apart from the obvious issue of producing genuine gold earrings from 14 carat bullion, this noble colour can also be achieved on titanium earrings. Two alternative methods of colouring the metal are used for this purpose
What is PVD coat?
PVD coat or Physical Vapor Deposition, is an innovative method of applying metallic coatings to the surface of jewellery. The process produces a coating structure by condensing metal vapour on the surface, which guarantees durability and abrasion resistance. PVD-coated titanium earrings are characterised by excellent durability and an extremely aesthetic gold finish. Sometimes it is even difficult to see the difference between gold earrings and gold PVD-coated titanium earrings!
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Anodising of piercing jewellery
We have already written about the process of anodising jewellery in >>THIS<< post, but as a reminder we will repeat it again: anodising is a chemical process that gives jewellery a coloured appearance through controlled oxidation of the surface. In the case of titanium earrings, anodisation can deliver a variety of gold shades, creating unique designs and visual effects. However, it is worth noting that the colour of piercing jewellery achieved by anodisation is more likely to resemble shades of yellow than actual, shiny gold.
How do you know that is real gold?
To ensure that the piercing jewellery you purchase is made of gold, it is worth noting the gold assay markings. Standard designations include:
- ‘585’ for 14-karat gold,
- ‘750’ for 18-karat gold,
- ‘916’ for 22-karat gold.
Gold earrings for piercing are most often made from the “585” sample, but we cannot always encounter engraving on the earring. Therefore, reputable manufacturers of piercing jewellery provide certificates of authenticity, confirming the quality and composition of the metal.
Is gold allergenic?
Gold is classified as a low-reactive metal, which means that it is rarely a cause of sensitisation. However, people with sensitive skin, prone to irritation and allergies may experience adverse reactions to other components present in the gold alloy.It is therefore worth choosing jewellery with a high purity to minimise the risk of an allergic reaction.
An alternative to gold in this case would be an anodised earring, as titanium earrings are fully hypoallergenic. Anodisation changes the structure of the metal itself, unlike the PVD coating applied to the earring, so this is the safest solution for allergy sufferers.
Summary
In summary, the choice between gold earrings and PVD-coated jewellery depends on individual aesthetic preferences and your budget. Whatever the choice, it is important to pay attention to the quality of the materials and their effect on the skin. That is why we have titanium earrings, gold earrings and PVD-coated earrings in our shop; all to meet the requirements of each customer!