A Guide Gold and Black Ion Plated Stainless Steel Jewelry
Gold and black ion-plated stainless steel jewelry pieces have garnered a stellar fan following with their unique designs and contemporary look. While stainless steel has been popular as an alternative metal for fine jewelry, ion plating has added new design dimensions to jewelry made from metal. With its unique and high polished look, stainless steel with ion plating is being used to form all types of interesting creations, from rings to bracelets and even watches.
What is ion plating?
Also known as IP Plating, this is one of the newest surface coating procedures and also the most advanced to date. It involves adding a titanium nitride layer to the base metal in a vapor form. The result is a harder and more durable surface that offers greater brightness and sheen than the traditional plating methods.
Experiments conducted to gauge the durability of ion plating have shown that IP plated surfaces are five to eight times more durable and resilient to corrosion and wear than surfaces obtained through other plating processes. Add to this the fact that the process can be used to produce a range of exciting and aesthetically pleasing colors, and it is easy to understand why ion plating is such a hit with fine jewelry makers.
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Typically, IP plated jewelry is available in colors from Black to brown and even different hues of golden such as rose and yellow. In terms of finish, you can get polished and matte surfaces with the same durability through this coating procedure.
The process of Ion plating
The high chemical stability of titanium nitride, which forms the surface layer in this method, gives IP plated surfaces their resilience and durability. To begin with, a layer of titanium nitride is added to the base surface of stainless steel. Additionally, a final plating metal is added to the surface; the thickness of this layer is no more than 0.3 urn. This top layer is what gives the plating its color.
The process is carried out in a vacuum environment as low pressure must be created to evaporate solid metal. Electric ions are produced when the vapor is heated and bombarded with electrons. This plasma is accelerated by the magnetic field induced as it covers the base metal. Ion plating is rightly called a “permanent” coating, given its durability and chemical stability. Since metal vapor (plasma or ions) is used in the coating process, the cost of production is lower than that of wet plating methods.
Why only stainless steel jewelry?
Although IP plating can be used on just about any metal or surface, stainless steel is a favorite choice because it is considered an affordable alternative to gold, platinum, and silver. Yet, there is no compromise on the aesthetic value of the product. Also, stainless is more durable and hypoallergenic compared to other metals.
Combined with IP plating, stainless steel offers versatility both in terms of design and colors and can easily be used to emulate the finish of precious metals such as rose or yellow gold. The best part is that, unlike electric coating, ion-plated jewelry stays looking as good as new for decades.
The benefits of choosing ion-plated stainless steel jewelry!
Surgical-grade stainless steel is used in the making of these pieces. Since it has been used in the production of surgical instruments for decades, it is well-researched that stainless steel does not produce allergic reactions even in people who are otherwise prone to metal allergies. So, there are scores of advantages to choosing stainless steel ion-plated jewelry, such as:
- 100% skin-friendly and safe
- The high polished sheen that adds to the allure of the pieces
- Cold, smooth finish that makes it a joy to wear the jewelry
- The plating, color, and sheen last for decades without damage
- Although gold and black are the most common colors induced through IP plating, it is possible to get a range of hues
- Affordable jewelry that creates the same elegant and rich look as pieces made from precious metals
- Silver coating is not needed as ion-plated, stainless steel jewelry has a natural silvery look to them.
- Stainless steel is stronger, and it has a better luster than other metals
- It is a favorite for men’s jewelry and contemporary pieces.
- The base metal and the ion plating can endure a significant amount of wear and tear without giving in.
- It’s very easy to maintain jewelry made from stainless steel.
Some eye-catching creations in stainless steel jewelry with gold and black ion plating!
The Black and silver stainless steel inscribed ring is a perfect combination of elegance and style. The two surrounding rings bring out the sheen of the thick silver band in the center in Black. It’s a beautiful choice, whether it is being used as a wedding band or even if you just want to add a touch of class to an outfit.
The intricate design is what sets this ring apart from other creations. The gorgeous mingling of colors, from Black to silver, gray, and even gold, lends this ring its stylish look. Perfect when worn as an accessory with a bracelet or even on its own, this product sure is an attention grabber!
This design has a distinctly feminine touch and the perfect combination of silver and golden colors. The chain-link bracelet is both delicate and durable, given the stainless steel used in its design. The product will go extraordinarily well with a summery dress or even a formal skirt suit.
This bracelet is a solid, unisex choice with its striking combination of copper and Black would look stunning with just about any attire. While it has an elegance that can be combined with formal clothing, it also has a touch of ruggedness with its bold design that could be matched with a simple pair of jeans and a dress shirt.
All products are made at ELF925 Jewelry Company.
