Plating cost rises with thickness, because a thicker layer uses more gold, rhodium or silver and keeps the piece in the plating tank longer. For gold, the metal itself is the largest part of the plating cost, so moving from a flash coat to a heavy micron plating can change the price of a piece noticeably, especially for large necklace sets with a big surface area.
We do not quote figures here, because they move with the gold price and differ by design. What follows is how the cost is built, so you can compare quotes sensibly.
What drives plating cost
- Surface area: a large, ornate necklace has far more surface to cover than a stud earring.
- Thickness: the amount of metal deposited rises roughly in proportion to thickness.
- Metal and colour: gold is the costly one. Rhodium is also expensive. Silver and copper are cheaper.
- Underlayers: copper or a nickel-free barrier layer under the gold adds steps and cost.
- Protective coating: anti-tarnish lacquer or e-coating adds a further stage.
- Rejects: thicker, more controlled plating usually means more inspection and fewer rejects.
Typical thickness levels
Flash plating is a very thin coat, a fraction of a micron, and is used for low-priced fashion pieces. It looks good on the shelf but can wear within weeks on high-contact parts such as rings and bangles.
Micron gold plating, often one micron or more, is used where buyers expect the colour to last. In the US, the FTC treats heavy gold electroplate as at least 2.5 microns, which gives a useful reference point for premium pieces.
Comparing quotes fairly
Two quotes that both say gold-plated can differ several times over in gold content. Ask each maker to state the plating thickness in microns, the gold purity of the solution, the underlayers and any coating. Then ask for an XRF thickness reading on the sample.
If one maker is much cheaper, look first at thickness. See our guide on how imitation jewellery prices are calculated for the other parts of the price.
Choosing the right thickness
- Statement earrings and necklaces that are worn occasionally: thinner plating can be acceptable.
- Rings, bangles and bracelets that rub on skin and surfaces: thicker plating pays for itself in fewer returns.
- Online sales with reviews: aim for plating that will still look good after the return window.
What this means for a buyer
Specify plating by microns, not by words, and match it to how the piece is worn. Creston & Co works for buyers only, for a fixed fee agreed in writing: we check plating thickness on samples and production, have samples tested at NABL-accredited labs and supervise packing. Start with a free sourcing review.