Gold Plated Door Handle. A rich gold finish on a hotel style handle.
The Quick Answer
Choose gold plating if you want real gold, a rich warm look or a finish that can be redone. Choose PVD gold if the item is touched all day and needs the toughest surface.
Both can look great. The best choice depends on the item, the budget and how much wear it will see.
How Gold Plating Works
In gold plating, the part sits in a tank with gold in the liquid. Electric current moves the gold onto the part. The result is a thin layer of real gold. We can use 24K, 22K or 18K gold and finishes from mirror bright to brushed matte.
Gold plating is a good fit for jewellery, trophies, cutlery, decor and hotel pieces. When the shine fades after years of use, the item can be cleaned and plated again.
How PVD Gold Works
In PVD coating, the part goes into a vacuum chamber. A metal is turned into vapor and lands on the part as a very thin, very hard film. The most common PVD gold color uses titanium nitride. It looks like gold, but it is not real gold.
PVD can also make rose gold, bronze, black and other colors. It is popular for door handles, taps, shower sets and stainless steel panels.
Side by Side
Here is a simple comparison.
| Point | Gold Plating | PVD Gold |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Real gold layer | Hard metal film such as titanium nitride |
| Look | Rich, warm and deep | Bright gold or other colors |
| Hardness | Softer, so it can wear with heavy touch | Very hard and scratch resistant |
| Colors | Gold shades and mixed finishes | Gold, rose gold, bronze, black and more |
| Best For | Jewellery, decor, trophies, cutlery | Door handles, taps, panels, busy hotel areas |
| Renewing | Can be cleaned and replated | Needs the film removed first, then redone |
How to Choose
Pick Gold Plating When
You want real gold, a classic rich color or a piece you may replate in the future.
Pick PVD When
The item gets touched, cleaned and scratched every day, like a hotel door handle or a tap.
Think About Cost
PVD needs special vacuum equipment. Gold plating cost follows the gold used and the size of the part.
Ask For a Sample
Send a photo or a small piece and we can suggest the finish that fits your use.
Hotels and Projects
Many hotel projects use both. They choose PVD for handles and bathroom sets that guests touch often. They choose gold plating for decor pieces, trays and trolleys. Read more in our guide on how to choose plating for hotel fittings.
Care Tips
Wipe with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Do not use bleach, rough pads or strong cleaners. Dry the item well. These simple steps keep both finishes bright for longer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Usually no. Common PVD gold uses titanium nitride, which looks like gold but is a hard metal film.
PVD is harder, so it usually lasts longer on items that are touched a lot. Gold plating is better when you want real gold and the option to replate.
Yes. We clean the item, remove the old layer if needed and plate it again.
Yes. Stainless steel and brass are very common base metals for PVD coating.
It depends on the size, the amount of gold used and the number of parts. Send us photos and quantity for a clear quote.
Need Help With Your Project?
Send us photos, sizes and quantity. Our team will suggest the right finish and send a quote.
Contact Our Team