Gold is a typical color for stainless steel magnetic clasps, achieved via surface treatment techniques, involving real gold. Even though they share a golden appearance, the same style of magnetic clasps may use various surface treatment methods.
In this article, I’ll introduce three methods of achieving a gold appearance on stainless steel magnetic jewelry clasps.
1:PVD Coating
Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) coating is a process where a thin layer of gold is deposited onto a base metal, often stainless steel or titanium, for a non-tarnish, hypoallergenic, polished finish that will hold up best to everyday wear.
PVD coating is known for its durability and scratch resistance. The gold layer is bonded well to the stainless steel magnetic clasps, resulting in a long-lasting golden appearance.
2:Gold Plating
Gold plating is an electrochemical process that involves depositing a thin layer of gold onto another metal(such as brass, copper, 925 sterling silver, stainless steel), Gold plating is a common and affordable way to achieve a gold-like appearance, but it can wear off over time, revealing the base metal beneath.
3:Gold Filled
Gold filled jewelry is created by bonding a layer of gold alloy to a base metal, typically using heat and pressure. The gold layer is significantly thicker than the layer applied by gold plating, hence the term “filled.” Gold filled magnetic clasp often has a much higher percentage of gold than gold-plated clasps, making it more expensive. Gold filled clasps are considered more durable and long-lasting than gold-plated ones, as the gold layer is more substantial.
Gold Filled Magnetic Clasp
What is the Difference Between Gold Plated and Gold Filled?
Legally, a gold-filled magnetic clasp must contain 5% gold by weight. If it contains less than 5%, it cannot be termed as gold-filled. In contrast, a gold-plated magnetic clasp typically contains less than 0.05% gold by weight.
PVD coated magnetic clasp is more resistant to corrosion from sweat and regular wear than gold plated and gold filled magnetic clasp, making it ideal for daily wear bracelet or necklace pieces.
In Conclusion
PVD coating involves applying a thin layer of gold through a vacuum deposition process, resulting in a durable and scratch-resistant finish. Gold plating involves a similar process but uses an electrical current to deposit a thinner layer of gold. Gold filled magnetic clasp uses heat and pressure to bond a thicker layer of gold layer to the base metal.
So when you see a magnetic clasp with a gold appearance, they may differ in terms of durability, thickness of the gold layer, and plating cost. PVD coating and gold filling are generally considered more durable and high-quality options compared to gold plating.
