When you’re investing in jewellery, there’s more to consider than just how it looks. How your jewellery is made, especially the way it's coated, determines how long it will last, how well it wears, and whether it stays beautiful through every holiday.
At Straccia, we exclusively use 18k PVD gold plating for all our pieces. But what does that really mean, and how does it compare to traditional gold-plated jewellery?
Let’s break it down.
What Is Traditional Gold-Plating?
Gold-plated jewellery is typically made by coating a base metal (like brass, copper or nickel) with a thin layer of gold. This is done using a process called electroplating, where the gold is electrically bonded to the surface of the base.
Key facts about traditional gold plating:
- The gold layer is often thin, sometimes as little as 0.5 microns.
- It’s prone to fading, tarnishing or rubbing off over time, especially with daily wear and extended exposure to water.
- The base metals used can sometimes cause irritation for sensitive skin.
What Is PVD Gold Plating?
PVD stands for Physical Vapour Deposition, a high-tech process originally developed for aerospace and luxury watches. In simple terms, it fuses gold particles onto stainless steel in a vacuum environment, creating an ultra-durable, long-lasting finish.
We use 18k PVD gold plating over premium stainless steel for all our jewellery. Why? Because it's built for real life, beach clubs, late nights, salty air, sun cream and all.
The benefits of PVD gold plating:
- More durable than traditional plating (5-8x more wear-resistant)
- Waterproof and tarnish-resistant
- Hypoallergenic and skin-safe
- Luxurious gold finish that actually lasts
Why We Chose PVD for Every Piece We Make
Straccia jewellery is made for women who don’t just wear jewellery, they live in it. Our customers travel far, enjoying swimming in the ocean, and expect their jewellery to keep up. It’s tempting to buy that £6 necklace from a fast-fashion site, but if it turns green in a week or leaves your skin irritated, was it really a good deal?
With Straccia, you're getting:
- Long-lasting, waterproof jewellery
- Stunning 18k gold tone that doesn’t fade
- Hypoallergenic pieces that are safe for everyday wear
- Styles that feel like summer - year-round!
Explore our collections:
Necklaces – statement charm pieces and layered chains
Bracelets – bracelets adorned with charms and chunky bangles
Earrings – bold gold studs and sculptural drops
Rings – adjustable, ocean-inspired and one-of-a-kind
Body jewellery - delicate waist chains, anklets and elegant hand chains
If you want jewellery that holds its beauty through beach days, holiday travel and everyday life, PVD gold is a must. Get in touch with us today if you have any questions about our items.