Decorative PVD: metal finishes, colors, and durability in the fashion and design sectors

Decorative PVD: color, texture, and surface effect

Decorative PVD is the application of the PVD (Physical Vapour Deposition) process oriented towards aesthetics: the primary objective is to obtain a specific visual finish, color, texture, or effect on metal components, while maintaining or improving the surface properties of the piece.

It is not a simple painting or traditional electroplating: the PVD film is physically anchored to the substrate at the atomic level, with a typical thickness of a few micrometers that does not alter the dimensional tolerances of the component.

Color range and finishes

One of the distinctive elements of decorative PVD is the breadth of the obtainable color range. The color of the film depends on the chemical composition of the deposited compound, determined by the target material and the reactive gas used in the reactive deposition, and by the thickness of the film itself.

The most requested finishes in sectors such as fashion, furniture, and luxury include:

The same color finish can be applied in glossy, satin, or brushed variants, depending on the surface texture of the substrate: the PVD film faithfully replicates the finish of the underlying piece.

Durability compared to alternatives

The competitive advantage of decorative PVD compared to paints or traditional electroplating is not only aesthetic. The PVD film offers:

• Superior scratch resistance, thanks to the high hardness of the deposited compounds (typically 1500–3000 HV).
• Color stability over time, even in conditions of prolonged exposure.
• Absence of free nickel on the surface, a relevant aspect for compliance with European regulations on products in contact with the skin (REACH Regulation).

Application sectors

Decorative PVD is the answer to the aesthetic and functional needs of various industrial sectors in which LEM operates:

• Fashion and clothing: buckles, buttons, zips, accessories in steel or electroplated brass and zamak.
• Furniture and lighting: profiles, handles, lighting fixtures.
• Watchmaking and jewelry: cases, bracelets, costume jewelry components.
• Eyewear: metal fronts and temples.
• Taps and sanitary ware: gold and black finishes on chromed brass or steel.

Related articles: Reactive deposition