What is the costume jewelry durability?

One factor that contributes to durability is the amount of precious metal applied to the brass body, and such quantity is usually figured in proportions of weight, dividing the amount of precious metal by the weight of raw pieces undergoing the plating process.  As an example: a manufacturer may put 10 grams of 18 carat gold in the plating tanks to coat 1000 grams (1 kilogram) of brass body pieces.

Other factors, such as using conditions and frequency, as well as weather characteristics, will also have influence on piece durability. Rings, which usually face more attrition during use (driving, holding glasses, forks, etc) should have thicker precious metal layers (example: 10 grams of gold for each kilogram of brass rings) to last longer, while earrings, which do not face the same level of attrition during use, can be coated with only 3 grams of gold for every 1000 grams of brass pieces. Naturally, pieces constantly worn in seaside neighborhoods, where salt is present in the air, may not last as long as pieces worn in inland areas.

Each supplier has its recipe, some may recommend also varnish added to the gold layer, but, one other advantage offered by Pictan is: buyers may negotiate with supplier the quantity of gold / silver to be applied to pieces. This will influence cost, on one hand, and durability on the other hand.

Products with a satisfactory durability are usually plated with the following proportions of gold X brass bodies:

·      Earrings: Between 3 to 5 grams of gold for every 1000 grams of raw pieces.

·      Rings, Pendants and Bracelets: Between 10 to 12 grams of gold for every 1000 grams of raw pieces.

·      Chains, Necklaces and Chokers: Between 15 to 20 grams of gold for every 1000 grams of raw pieces.

Nevertheless, as explained above, pieces with thinner layers of precious metal may have a good durability, providing that they are not worn under severe conditions.