When we entered the jewelry space, we wanted to create high-quality jewelry that was stylish yet functional and durable enough to be used every day without showing signs of wear and tear.
To accomplish that, we use an advanced process called Physical Vapor Deposition plating, or PVD plating that adds a lasting gold finish to every piece. Let’s get into why the gold PVD coating process is preferable to traditional gold dipping.
What Is PVD Coating?
PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) is a precise process that creates an ultra-durable, tarnish-resistant gold coating. Unlike traditional gold plating, where jewelry is simply dipped into a thin layer of gold that can wear away, PVD bonds 18K gold to surgical-grade stainless steel at the molecular level.
How PVD Works in 4 Steps
Here’s a simple look at the PVD coating process:
- Preparation – Jewelry is placed in a vacuum-sealed chamber where all contaminants are removed. This ensures a flawless bond between the gold and stainless steel.
- Gold vaporization – Once the chamber is prepped, high-energy gas converts 18K gold into a vapor.
- Molecular bonding – Within the chamber, the vaporized gold is deposited onto the jewelry, forming an ultra-thin, uniform layer that bonds directly with the base metal.
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Final hardening and polishing – The PVD-coated jewelry undergoes a final hardening process, ensuring exceptional scratch resistance, long-term durability, and unmatched shine.
Why PVD Plating is Preferable to Traditional Gold Coating
Traditional gold plating can be as flaky as that friend who can't keep commitments. While this method creates a thin gold layer from directly dipping the piece in gold, it can be brittle and prone to wearing off over time, especially with everyday use. PVD coating outperforms gold plating for a variety of other reasons. It’s tarnish-resistant, you can introduce moisture, or the products you use daily without compromising the jewelry.
Additionally, the molecular bond makes PVD-coated jewelry more scratch and damage resistant than alternatives. The coating on our pieces is bonded directly with surgical-grade stainless steel, making them hypoallergenic and perfect for those with sensitive skin.
As a bonus, the PVD process is a more eco-friendly option than alternatives, as it does not use the harsh chemicals found in traditional plating methods – making it the smarter choice for you and the planet.
Why We Use PVD for Pixie Wing Jewelry
At Pixie Wing, we believe jewelry should do more than just look pretty. It should fit your life and move with you. That’s the idea behind everything we make, especially our Ring Keeper™ Necklace. It’s not just a statement piece, it’s made to do something and easily integrate into your style.
We care about the details, which is why we use quality materials and techniques that hold up over time. You won’t have to worry about tarnish, flaking, or that weird green ring some cheaper pieces leave behind. Pixie Wing designs jewelry made to last, plain and simple.
Simple Ways to Care for PVD Gold Jewelry
Even though PVD is incredibly durable, taking care of your pieces is crucial. Here are some simple tips that will help promote the longevity of your pieces:
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Store it properly – Keep your jewelry in a soft pouch or jewelry box when not in use to avoid accidental scratches.
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Clean with a soft cloth – Periodically wipe with a microfiber cloth or mild soap and water to remove oils and dirt.
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Avoid abrasive materials – While PVD is scratch-resistant, harsh scrubbing can dull the surface over time, so avoid using harsh bristle brushes for cleaning.
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Keep it away from chlorine and salt water – Excessive exposure to chlorinated water and salt water can weaken even the strongest finishes over time. Rinse your jewelry with fresh water if it comes into contact with either.
Quality That Lasts
Your jewelry should be timeless, elegant, and built to last, which is why we invest in PVD gold plating. Our commitment to quality means that every piece we design meets the highest standards of durability and craftsmanship.
You deserve jewelry that works as hard as you do. Discover our collection of tarnish-resistant, long-lasting PVD-gold-coated pieces. If, for any reason, you don’t love your Pixie Wing jewelry, our two-year, no-questions-asked return policy has you covered. (But honestly? We don’t think you’ll need it.)
