About Platings and Materials

Plating Basics

Each type of plating is assigned a wear resistance rating to indicate durability and longevity. A five star rating indicates that the plating and durability is such that it is likely to not wear off at any time under normal use and with minimal care.

Rhodium Rating: 5

Rhodium, a member of the platinum group of metals, is possibly nature’s most brilliant and durable precious metal. It is used around the world by the premium pen manufacturers to plate their very finest pens. It is unmatched in brilliance, durability, hardness and beauty. It resists tarnish and is very resistant to scratching and acids. Distinct Pen Designs offers a lifetime guarantee on all rhodium plating.

Titanium Rating: 5

Titanium offers superior wear resistance, and is available in both gold and black. Pay close attention to the plating descriptions on pens for sale. The titanium group of platings consists of black titanium which has a gun metal grey appearance that is extremely durable and titanium nitride, also known as “gold” titanium because of its gold appearance. It too is extremely brilliant and durable. Distinct Pen Designs also offers a lifetime guarantee on the titanium plating of all our pens.

10K Gold Rating: 3

10k gold is a popular plating that blends nickel and gold to form a brilliant plating that is affordable and relatively durable.

24K Gold Rating: 2

24K gold Plating gives your pen a rich and luxurious look. The plating process features a durable epoxy coating on top of the gold finish that increases wear resistance.

Copper Rating: 2

Copper offers a unique beauty and warmth. Because copper is soft by nature, this plating features a durable epoxy layer on top of the copper plating to increase wear resistance.

Chrome Rating: 1½

We are all familiar with the chrome finish. It has a brilliant silver appearing finish and goes well with any wood, acrylic, or other material. However, a chrome finish is the least durable of the finishes available.