PVD Coating vs Traditional Gold Plating – What’s the Difference?
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Why PVD vs Gold Plating Matters
More and more jewelry brands talk about “PVD gold” instead of classic gold plating. At first glance the pieces look the same, but the technology behind them is very different. That difference decides how long the color lasts, how scratch resistant the jewelry is and how well it handles everyday wear like sweat, showering and perfume.
At EXCITÀRE we work with 316L stainless steel and 18K PVD gold finishes because we want minimalist jewelry that survives real life: daily wear, travel, quick showers and nights out. To make that choice, we studied coating technologies that are also used in watches, medical tools and high-performance hardware, where long-term durability is non-negotiable.
In this guide we look at PVD coating vs traditional electroplated gold, using insights from surface engineering research and real-world experience with our own pieces. By the end you will understand exactly what you are paying for when you choose PVD gold jewelry.
This article is part of our Jewelry Guides series. You might also like:
What Is PVD Coating?
PVD stands for Physical Vapor Deposition. It is a vacuum coating technique originally developed for aerospace and industrial tools. Today it is used on high-end watches, electronics and minimalist jewelry.
The process bonds gold particles to the jewelry surface at atomic level, creating an extremely hard and stable coating. In simple terms, PVD:
- Vaporizes gold particles inside a vacuum chamber
- Bonds them into a dense, even surface layer
- Builds a finish that is far more resistant to wear and corrosion
PVD coatings are proven to offer significantly higher hardness and corrosion resistance than typical electroplated layers - which is why performance industries use them.
What Is Traditional Gold Plating?
Traditional gold plating is done by electroplating. The jewelry is placed in a liquid bath containing gold ions. When an electric current passes through the bath, gold attaches to the surface.
The final result depends on:
- Base metal (brass, copper, silver or stainless steel)
- Gold thickness (flash plating vs micron plating)
- Underlayers (nickel, copper, etc.)
Thin gold plating on soft base metals fades quickly. Even higher-quality electroplating tends to be softer and more vulnerable to wear than modern PVD finishes.
Durability: Which Lasts Longer?
PVD is designed for maximum wear resistance. Research in surface engineering shows that PVD:
- Has higher hardness than many electroplated layers
- Resists abrasion and scratching more effectively
- Maintains color under sweat, humidity and daily friction
Everyday benefits include:
- Less wear on ring edges
- Better performance during workouts
- More stable tone over time
Cheap gold plating can fade within months. PVD on 316L stainless steel is engineered to last years of daily use.
Color, Shine & Fading Over Time
PVD gold maintains its color far longer.
PVD gold:
- Has a stable 18K tone
- Does not oxidize
- Resists micro-scratches that dull shine
Traditional gold plating:
- Looks bright at first
- Fades at contact points (rings, bracelets, pendants)
- Can shift tone if base metal reacts underneath
For minimalist pieces like the Nova Chain Gold or Flower Ring Gold, PVD gives you long-term consistency.
Skin Sensitivity & Allergies
PVD on 316L stainless steel is one of the safest combinations for sensitive skin.
- 316L is hypoallergenic and used in medical tools
- PVD does not release metal ions
- No nickel-based alloys underneath
Traditional plating can cause reactions if the gold layer wears away and exposes nickel or brass.
How To Care For PVD vs Gold Plated Jewelry
Care instructions are similar, but PVD gives you more room for error.
- Rinse after sweat or saltwater
- Dry with a soft cloth
- Avoid perfume directly on the metal
- Remove when using chemicals
- Store pieces separately
Full guide: How to Care for Jewelry.
Which Option Is Best For You?
- Daily wear? Choose PVD
- Sensitive skin? Choose PVD on 316L
- Occasional wear? Quality plating can work
- Tight budget? PVD gives long-term value
Conclusion
PVD and traditional gold plating look similar on day one, but behave very differently over time. PVD offers superior durability, color stability and corrosion resistance - especially when paired with 316L stainless steel.
Explore our PVD gold collection:
FAQ
Is PVD gold real gold?
Yes. PVD uses real gold in vapor form bonded to the jewelry surface. The base metal is 316L stainless steel.
Does PVD gold last longer than traditional gold plating?
Yes. PVD coatings are harder, denser and more wear-resistant than most conventional electroplated layers.
Will PVD gold fade or chip?
PVD gold is highly resistant to fading and chipping during normal daily wear. Harsh chemicals can still damage any finish.
Is PVD safe for sensitive skin?
Yes. PVD on 316L stainless steel is hypoallergenic and safe for most skin types.
Can I shower with PVD jewelry?
Showering is generally safe. Avoid chlorinated pools and rinse after saltwater exposure.
Looking for all styling tips? Visit the Complete Jewelry Guide.