Waterproof Gold Jewellery, Explained: What 18k PVD Actually Means

"Waterproof jewellery" usually means gold bonded to stainless steel with PVD (physical vapour deposition). The gold is vaporised in a vacuum chamber and fused to the steel at the molecular level, giving a far harder and longer-lasting finish than ordinary electroplating.

PVD vs. plated vs. vermeil vs. gold-filled

Here's how they compare for everyday wear:

• Standard gold plating: a thin layer over brass. Pretty, but it can fade within months if worn in water.
• Vermeil: thicker gold over sterling silver. Lovely, but the silver underneath can still tarnish.
• Gold-filled: a thick gold layer bonded with heat and pressure. Durable, and priced to match.
• 18k PVD over 316L steel: a hard, bonded gold finish over hypoallergenic surgical-grade steel. Water-, sweat- and tarnish-resistant.

Is it hypoallergenic?

316L stainless steel is the same grade used for surgical instruments and body jewellery. Our pieces are nickel-free at the surface, which is what matters for sensitive skin.

How to make it last for years

Rinse off chlorine and salt water, avoid abrasive cleaners, and store pieces separately so harder stones can't scratch softer finishes. That's all it takes.