What is PVD in jewelry?
PVD stands for Physical Vapor Deposition, an advanced coating process that allows a layer of gold or rose gold to be applied to titanium jewelry without altering its physical or chemical properties.
In the world of piercings, PVD has become a modern and resistant alternative to traditional gold plating, offering greater durability and a better finish.
How does the PVD process work?
- Vacuum chamber: The jewel is placed in an environment where almost all air is removed.
- Material vaporization: The gold is heated until it turns into vapor.
- Uniform deposition: The ionized particles adhere to the surface of the titanium, forming a uniform and resistant layer.
The result is a piece of jewelry with a high-quality gold or rose gold finish, with greater wear resistance compared to conventional gold plating.
Differences between PVD and gold plating
- PVD creates a thicker layer (approx. 4–6 microns).
- It is more resistant to abrasion and daily use.
- It does not alter the properties of the base titanium.
- Traditional gold plating is thinner and less durable.
Advantages of PVD piercings on titanium
- Implant-grade titanium base (hypoallergenic and nickel-free).
- Greater resistance to sweat, water, and daily use.
- Uniform shine and sophisticated finish.
- A more accessible alternative to solid gold.
PVD vs 14K or 18K solid gold
Solid gold jewelry represents a lifelong investment and maintains its value over time. However, PVD offers a more accessible alternative with excellent resistance and a premium appearance.
Both options can be combined in the same ear look, creating elegant contrasts between PVD titanium and solid gold.
Important consideration
A piece of jewelry that has already undergone the PVD process cannot be anodized afterward, as the gold or rose gold color is already applied uniformly and durably.
Conclusion
Jewelry with PVD coating on titanium is a modern, resistant, and aesthetically sophisticated option for piercings. It offers lasting shine, greater resistance than traditional gold plating, and maintains the safety of implant-grade titanium.
