Gold Plated Brass vs Gold Plated Stainless Steel - Sky Austria

In this article, we examine the differences between gold-plated brass and gold-plated stainless steel jewellery. Understanding their benefits and drawbacks will help you make an informed decision.

What is gold-plated brass?

When choosing gold-plated jewellery, it's important to consider the materials used in its production. The most common base metals for gold plating are brass and stainless steel. Each of these metals comes with unique qualities and aesthetics. Gold-plated brass consists of a base metal made from a mixture of copper and zinc, topped with a thin layer of gold that is usually less than 1 micron thick, applied via electroplating or PVD plating.

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Pros

• Lightweight feel - being lighter than many other metals, brass is ideal for everyday jewellery pieces.
• Affordable - gold-plated brass offers a more economical choice compared to other metals.
• Appearance - gold plating on brass can mimic the look of solid gold.
• Customisability - due to its softness, gold-plated brass is highly versatile for crafting.

Cons

• Less durable - the gold layer may wear off over time, revealing the brass beneath and possibly necessitating replating.
• Tarnishing and corrosion - brass can tarnish when in contact with moisture, oils, and chemicals, often leading to discolouration.
• Allergic reactions - non-hypoallergenic traces in brass may lead to skin allergies.
• Maintenance and care requirements - proper care is crucial for prolonging the life of gold-plated brass.

What is gold-plated stainless steel?

This variety features a base of stainless steel, composed of chromium, nickel, molybdenum, and a small amount of carbon. The gold is added in a layer thinner than 1 micron through electroplating or PVD plating, akin to brass.

Pros

• Durability - stainless steel offers enhanced resistance to scratches and corrosion.
• Affordable - achieving a high-quality gold look without a hefty price tag is a benefit of gold-plated stainless steel.
• Appearance - this combination closely resembles real gold jewellery without the fuss.
• Hypoallergenic - less likely to provoke skin reactions, making it suitable for sensitive skin.
• No tarnishing - stainless steel maintains its appearance for longer periods.

Cons

• Heavier feel - some individuals may find stainless steel’s weight less comfortable for daily wear.

Differences between gold-plated brass and gold-plated stainless steel

When contrasting the two materials, gold-plated stainless steel clearly demonstrates superior durability. Its architecture provides resilience against corrosion, due to chromium within the alloy, while brass tends to change hue and can develop a patina over time when exposed to the elements.

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Durability

Stainless steel's robust makeup offers an edge over brass due to its inherent resistance to scratching and wear. The adherence of gold plating is also optimized on stainless steel, ensuring its longevity.

Hypoallergenic attributes

The chromium layer in gold-plated stainless steel acts as a barrier, minimizing the risk of skin irritation unlike the copper in brass, which can cause allergic reactions.

Weight

Gold-plated stainless steel is significantly denser than brass, leading to a heavier feel; a factor to consider for daily use.

Price

As a rule, gold-plated stainless steel is pricier than brass due to production complexity and inherent material costs. Its long-term durability justifies this investment.

Which is better for you: gold-plated brass or stainless steel?

Your choice between gold-plated brass and stainless steel will largely depend on personal taste, budget, and intended use. While gold-plated brass provides an attractive, budget-friendly option, gold-plated stainless steel offers greater durability and reduced tarnish risk.

Conclusion

In conclusion, gold-plated stainless steel stands out due to its superior durability, hypoallergenic properties, and tarnish resistance. For wearers prioritizing style alongside practicality, it proves an excellent choice, whereas gold-plated brass offers a lightweight and more economical option. Ultimately, your selection should align with your aesthetic preferences and lifestyle needs.

To gain more insights into gold plated jewellery, explore our blog that answers the question: "what is gold plated jewellery?"

If you are seeking further information, kindly check out copper composite material.