Real Gold Plating

Definition and Overview

Real gold plating is one type of surface finish used on metal zippers. It is used as a name that indicates plating made with gold, distinguished from gold-tone coatings or other gold-colored plating. It uses the sheen to add a glamorous touch as an accessory for clothing and bags.

This term does not refer to the overall structure or opening/closing type of a zipper, but mainly to the finish of the visible metal parts. Therefore, it is checked separately from types such as coil zipper and Vislon zipper, as well as specifications such as open or closed.

Structure and Parts Covered

A zipper consists of interlocking elements on the left and right, a slider that opens and closes it, a zipper tape that supports the elements, top stops and a bottom stop, and, for open specifications, a box pin and insertion pin. The scope of real gold plating varies by product and is applied to metal parts such as the elements, slider, puller, and stops.

On metal zippers, the color of the elements greatly affects the appearance. However, the color and finish of the slider and puller are not necessarily the same as the elements. In specifications, it is easier to confirm if you separately specify the parts to be plated, the shape of the puller, and even the tape color.

• The elements are the metal parts that interlock from the left and right to form the opening and closing section.
• The slider is the moving part that interlocks or separates the elements.
• The top and bottom stops are parts that prevent the slider from coming off the ends.

Types and Specification Checks

Real gold plating is a name for a surface finish and does not indicate element size, zipper length, stop type, or opening style. Depending on the application, the element size, whether it is a closed zipper or open zipper, and whether a two way separator or double slider is needed are selected separately.

Zipper length is generally checked based on the distance from the top stop to the bottom stop, and for open zippers, from the top stop to the upper end of the box pin. Because this may differ from the full tape length, when placing an order, compare the length basis shown on the product and the required finished dimensions.

Applications and Selection Notes

Real gold plated zippers are used on jackets, dresses, bags, stage costumes, and other items where the zipper is visible and a gold decorative effect is desired. Choose them with attention to matching the fabric color, the metal color of other buttons and buckles, and the design of the puller.

In sewing, keep the needle from hitting the elements or slider, and sew the tape section using a zipper foot. To avoid poor opening and closing caused by sewing into the zipper, or waviness caused by differences in stretch between the left and right tapes, baste first and check opening and closing before final stitching.

Suitability for washing or dry cleaning depends on the type of plating, base metal, usage conditions, and the care label of the product being sewn. Strong friction, perspiration and detergent residue, and humidity can all cause changes in appearance, so before mass production it is important to carry out washing tests and appearance checks on the actual product.

Frequently Asked Questions