The term describes a process where a thin layer of gold is applied to a substrate, typically another metal, through various methods such as electroplating or physical vapor deposition. This creates a surface coating with the properties of gold while leveraging the base material’s inherent strengths or cost-effectiveness. For example, electronic components often utilize this technique to improve conductivity and corrosion resistance at connection points.
This surface treatment offers several advantages, including enhanced resistance to oxidation and corrosion, improved electrical conductivity, and an aesthetically pleasing finish. Historically, it has been employed in applications ranging from jewelry making, where it imparts the appearance of solid gold at a lower cost, to sophisticated technological fields requiring reliable and stable electrical connections. Its value lies in combining the desirable attributes of gold with the structural or economic benefits of the underlying material.
