Let’s be honest, “Is stainless steel gold chain real or fake?” is a question that gets thrown around more than the jewelry itself. Well, the answer depends on more than just the shiny appearance. It comes down to how the gold is applied, the plating method that is used, and the grade of stainless steel underneath.

In today’s blog, we’ll break down what gold stainless steel jewelry actually is, how PVD and electroplating compare, and how to spot the real gold chain from the fake. We also provide some tips on choosing the best stainless steel for gold plating. Let’s get started. 

What is Gold Stainless Steel Jewelry?

Gold stainless steel jewelry is not trying to be solid gold. It is built to look the part while holding up wear and tear. It starts with stainless steel as the base. It is chosen because of its strength and resistance to tarnishing. 

Next, a thin layer of gold is added through a plating process, usually PVD or electroplating. The process you decide to choose all depends on the look you’re going for and the durability that you need. 

When it is done right, you get the warmth and shininess of gold with the durability of steel. The quality of your gold stainless steel jewelry will depend heavily on the plating method you decide to go with and the grade of steel used underneath.

Is Stainless Steel Gold Chain Real or Fake?

Well, are stainless steel gold chains real or fake? Stainless steel gold chains are not fake, but they are not solid gold either. A stainless steel gold chain is made with real gold, just not all the way through. The base of the chain is stainless steel. It is often high-grade stainless steel like 304 or 316L. 

A thin layer of gold is then added on top through plating. If you see it labeled as “PVD gold stainless”, it means that the gold layer is bonded in a way that is built to last. 

Stainless steel gold chains are a practical and affordable option that gives you the look and feel of gold but with added durability and fewer allergy issues to worry about. 

How to Know If Gold Stainless Steel Is Real?

There are two ways to check if your stainless steel gold chain is real or fake. Let’s take a look.

1. Look for the symbol “Au” in the jewelry report. If it’s there, it means the piece has been coated with real gold.
2. Another way to check if the gold layer on your jewelry or gold stainless steel chain is real is by using the Fisher and X-ray fluorescence (XRF) test.  

This test checks what metals are in your jewelry. It can tell you if there’s real gold in the coating and how thick that layer is. This will help confirm whether your gold stainless steel piece is actually plated with real gold or just made to look like it.

Making Gold Stainless Steel Jewelry: The Plating Process

There are two main ways when it comes to plating gold onto stainless steel. The two methods are called PVD and electroplating. Each of them has its own advantages, and the one you decide to choose will depend on how long you want the gold finish to last, and of course, how much wear your piece will get. 

Method 1: PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition)

This method is more advanced. The stainless steel gets cleaned thoroughly and then placed in a vacuum chamber. Inside the chamber, the gold is then turned into vapor and bonded to the surface on a molecular level. It sticks well and lasts. 

There’s also a layer in between called titanium nitride. This layer helps protect the gold from reacting with air or water. That’s why PVD jewelry pieces tend to keep their color and don’t scratch as easily.

Method 2: Electroplating

This method is simpler. The stainless steel is placed in a solution that is filled with gold ions. An electric current then helps to transfer those ions onto the surface. It creates a thin gold layer, but stainless steel is tough, and the process is gentle. Which means the gold doesn’t grip as well. It wears off faster.

The method of electroplating tends to work better on softer metals like silver or brass. It is because the gold sticks more easily to it.

Tips for Choosing the Best Stainless Steel for Gold Plating

If you want your gold-plated stainless steel jewelry to last, the type of stainless steel you use really plays a big part. Some stainless steel grades perform better than others. It is especially the case when it comes to how well the gold sticks to it and how long it will stay shiny. Let’s have a look at some tips.

• Choose stainless steel like 304 or 316L.

These stainless steel types are strong, of high quality, and they don’t rust easily. 316L is especially good if you have sensitive skin, as it is less likely to cause skin irritations.

• Stay away from cheap or mixed stainless steel.

The lower-grade stainless steel might save you money, but it won’t hold the gold as well, and it can wear out or change color faster. It is also more likely for the cheaper blends to cause skin irritations.

• Make sure your surface is smooth.

Gold will stick better to the stainless steel if it’s clean and smooth. If the surface is rough, the gold plating might look patchy, or it might even peel off.

• Consider how often the gold-plated jewelry will be worn.

If it is for everyday pieces, choose stainless steel, which is known to last. 316L is the ideal choice.

• Match the stainless steel to your plating method.

PVD works best with harder stainless steel, like 316L. Electroplating doesn’t bond as well to stainless steel, so it’s better for softer metals like silver or brass.

• Ask for proof of the stainless steel grade.

If you’re buying from a supplier, make sure to ask them for the specs or the certificate of the jewelry piece. It’s good to have the bigger picture and know exactly what you’re working with.

(Source: Pinterest)

Final Thoughts

So, Is Stainless Steel Gold Chain Real or Fake? It is real, but it’s not solid gold. The pieces have real gold on top, with stainless steel underneath. It offers a balance of beauty and durability. 

The plating method and steel grade you decide to go with play a very important role. It will determine how long the finish will last and how well it will hold up over time..

Choosing jewelry should feel natural, and at Feebee Jewelry, we make sure it does. Whether you’re working on a collection, sourcing for your store, or just looking for something that looks good and will last. We’re here to help! 

So reach out, we’re always happy to help you find the gold standard, without the solid gold price tag.