The applying of a skinny layer of gold onto a base steel is a standard approach in jewellery manufacturing. The “18k” designation refers back to the gold’s purity, indicating that 18 out of 24 elements of the steel are gold, with the remaining portion consisting of different alloys. When this 18k gold is utilized as a plating over a unique, extra inexpensive steel core, the ensuing merchandise gives the looks of stable gold at a lowered price. For instance, a necklace may be created from a base steel like stainless-steel or brass, after which coated with a layer of 18k gold.
This course of gives a number of benefits. It permits for the creation of visually interesting jewellery that’s extra accessible to a wider vary of shoppers resulting from its lower cost level in comparison with stable gold gadgets. The approach additionally permits for design flexibility and may be utilized to varied base metals, enabling a various vary of kinds. Traditionally, this technique has been employed to create inexpensive imitations of treasured steel jewellery, courting again centuries in varied cultures.