Gold plating is the technique of covering metal with a thin layer of gold. Gold plating has a range of applications, from jewelry to electronics. Its often used to give metal items a luxurious, attractive finish. Gold plating is a process that involves several steps.
Step 1: Cleaning
The item to be plated must be thoroughly cleaned before the plating process can begin. Grease, dirt, and oils can affect the adhesion of the gold, so an ultrasonic cleaner or mild detergent is used to remove any residue. Item can also be buffed with a special wheel to bring out the shine.
Step 2: Preparing the Solution
The plating solution contains the metal salts and acids required to deposit a gold layer. Eighty-four karat gold is made up of 84% gold, 14% silver, and 2% copper. A plating solution commonly consisting of potassium gold cyanide or gold chloride and an acid such as hydrochloric acid is used to create this alloy.
Step 3: Connecting to an Electroplating Machine
The item is connected to an electroplating machine and a power source, such as a battery. The plating machine produces a direct current that runs through the item, becoming the catalyst for the plating process.
Step 4: Adding the Plating Solution
The plating solution is carefully added to the tank containing the item to be plated. The solution should be circulated to ensure the gold coats the whole item.
Step 5: Plating
The current produces an electrochemical reaction, attracting the gold molecules from the solution to the item being plated. The gold molecules coat the item and form a thin, even layer.
Step 6: Timing the Plating
The plating time can vary, depending on the strength of the current and the thickness of the gold layer required. A timer can be used to ensure the item is plated for the right amount of time.
Step 7: Rinse
Once the plating process is complete, the item should be carefully rinsed in clean water to remove any excess solution.
Step 8: Clean
The item should then be dried and buffed with a cloth, to remove any remaining residue.
Gold plating is a specialized craft and requires the correct use of specific chemicals and an understanding of the electroplating process. Adequate safety precautions should always be taken when gold plating, as some of the chemicals and solutions used can be dangerous.
