A thin layer of gold, alloyed to an 18/24 purity, is deposited onto the surface of a base metal. This process combines the aesthetic appeal of a high-karat gold with the affordability and structural integrity of an underlying material, typically a less expensive metal such as brass, nickel, or stainless steel. The resulting product exhibits the visual characteristics of solid gold while employing significantly less of the precious metal.
This surface treatment offers a cost-effective means to achieve a luxurious appearance in jewelry, accessories, and decorative items. It provides a degree of tarnish resistance to the base metal and enhances the perceived value of the object. Historically, such techniques have been employed to create more accessible versions of opulent goods, democratizing the availability of gold’s visual allure.