We have found that very few consumers understand the differences between these various plating processes, as they apply to jewelry, round diamond rings and watches. It is believed that it would be helpful for every buyer if it were described in non-technical language and explained the differences and benefits of each, because it will make a difference in the price you pay for watch.
Gold Plating
Gold plating is a process of depositing a thin layer of gold onto the surface of another metal, which is most often copper or silver, by either chemical or electro-chemical plating. It is generally used on low cost jewelry, because it is inexpensive and easy to apply. The problem with gold plating is it lacks durability and can discolor within a short period, if the jewelry is subject to only normal wear. Most cheap imported gold plated jewelry is only one micron thick, which gives it a very limited lifespan, which is not at all meant for cathedral engagement rings.
PVD Plating
PVD stands for “physical vapor deposition”, because gold is vaporized in a vacuum chamber and deposited on the intended piece of jewelry. When PVD is utilized with titanium nitride, a very hard material, it provides an extremely durable coating of gold, which is the reason it is used in medium to higher priced jewelry like solitaire engagement rings especially watches. Additionally, it is more resistant to corrosion by seawater and sweat than gold plating.
The titanium nitride is first applied to the piece, which produces a very hard rough surface. When the gold is applied, it first fills the minute cavities in the rough surface and builds up to form a smooth surface. Since the high points of the titanium nitride are so hard, they protect the jewelry so the gold does not wear away as fast. A typical application of PVD gold plating that is applied to watches is 10 microns, or 10 times the thickness of typical gold plating and many times more durable than the thickness implies. PVD plating with titanium nitride is not scratch proof, but it takes a bit of effort to scratch through to the base metal. It is a more complicated process to apply and requires expensive capital equipment, which makes it a more expensive addition to your beautiful round diamond rings.
Gold Filled
Gold filling is a mechanical and permanent bonding of gold to metal under high temperatures and pressures. If applied correctly, it can last a lifetime if properly cared for and not abused through excessive wear or abrasion. It can be a much thicker layer than both gold plates and PVD gold plating and is therefore more expensive than both are.
Newer gold-filled jewelry contains a marking, which indicates how much, and what type of gold was used in the layer. For instance, a marking of 1/20 12K G.F., means the jewelry has at least 1/20th of 12 Karat gold by weight. All gold filled jewelry must have a minimum gold content of at least 1/20th of the total weight of the item to be classified as “gold filled”. Usually, 10K, 12K and 14K gold is used in this process.
I hope this information helps you be a better shopper. To know more about round diamond rings, diamond rings, platinum engagement rings, wedding rings, cathedral engagement rings, wedding bands, and other jewelry items feel free to visit us at http://www.bidiamonds.com
Article Source : http://bestrounddiamondrings.wordpress.com/2012/05/29/diamond-jewelry-marketplace-on-buying-real-diamonds-cathedral-engagement-rings/
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