Jewelry Plating Specs (Allergy & Color Fade)

Jewelry returns come from skin reactions and fading. 'Gold plated' means nothing without a thickness spec. Lock it down.

Why This Matters

Flash plating (<0.05 microns) rubs off in days. Nickel causes allergies. If you don't specify materials, you get the cheaper version.

What to ask suppliers

Q1
What is plating thickness and method?
Q2
What base metal is used?
Q3
Any anti-tarnish topcoat?
Q4
How do you pack to avoid scratches?

Red Flags

“18K gold plated” with no thickness.
Avoids base metal disclosure.
No anti-tarnish process.
Poor packaging causing scratches.

Step-by-Step Verification Checklist

1
Base metal spec (stainless, brass, etc.).
2
Plating type + thickness (microns) in PO.
3
Nickel release considerations (market dependent).
4
Surface finish standard (polish, brush).
5
Sweat/water exposure guidance.
6
Coating/topcoat requirement (anti-tarnish).
7
Packaging to prevent scratches/tarnish.
8
Sample aging test expectations.

Supplier Message Template

Copy Paste

Hi [Supplier],

Order Specs:
- Base: 316L Stainless Steel.
- Plating: PVD, 0.5 microns thickness.
- Coating: E-coating required.
- Nickel Free: Yes.

We will test samples for lead/nickel.

What to send me to start

Product photos + target finish
Target market
Quantity

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Jewelry Plating & Allergies: How to Lock in Color Fade