At the Craftsman's Bench: Jewellery Finishes
Jewellery finishes are processes that add the finishing touches to a piece of jewellery, lending it its overall look and feel. It can range from polishing techniques to chemical applications such as oxidation. There are various types of finishes available, and these can drastically change the appearance of the piece of jewellery. The following are some of the more popular finishes found in jewellery:
Polished Finish
A high polished finish is one where the craftsman uses the polishing wheel to buff the item to a high, polished shine to attain a smooth and reflective surface. The polished finish is favoured for its mirror-like look. Even though superficial scuff marks can show up pretty quickly, they can be easily removed by repolishing.
Matte Finish
A matte finish diffuses light across the surface of the metal which gives off a soft and lustrous shine to the jewellery. This is usually achieved via a chemical process or by using abrasive material to rub the surface of the metal. Matte finish has the advantage of hiding slight scratches in the metal caused by regular wear.
Brushed Finish
A brushed finish has a texture as if it were made with a brush. Machinery or tools are utilised to create fine and consistent lines on the metal surface. The tiny parallel lines on the surface create a soft diffused shine on the precious metal making it a refined complement to any look.
Hammered Finish
A hammered finish is created by tapping at the metal with a polished hammer which results in a unique textured surface that can range from bold to soft depending on the force of hammering. The hammered finish adds a touch of rustic and artisanal look to the jewellery. The resulting dappled pattern gives off a shine that is more subtle than other jewellery finishes.
Sandblasted Finish
A sandblasted finish is a type of matte finish that has a textured, slightly rough feel. To achieve this finish, a sandblasting machine that directs a stream of high-pressure air containing abrasive materials such as aluminium oxide and silicon carbide is used on the metal. The resulting finish on the metal can range from fine to coarse depending on the material used in the process.
The choice of a jewellery finish is a personal one, ranging from classic high-polished looks to subtle brushed finishes or even embracing the natural patina from wear. Factors to consider when deciding on the type of finish include the metal choice, maintenance effort, and lifestyle choices. We invite you to get in touch with our esteemed Fine Jewellery Specialists for expert guidance in selecting the ideal finish suited for you.
