Badge Guides & News
Badge plating finishes explained
Oct
The metal finish frames every colour on your badge. Gold feels classic, black nickel makes bright enamel stand out, and an antique finish brings out fine detail. This guide sorts our finishes into four families, explains what each one looks like, and links to a page for each finish, so you can choose with confidence.
Polished finishes: bright and smooth
| Finish | What it looks like | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| Gold plated | Bright, reflective gold | Classic, premium-looking designs |
| Gold micron plated | A thicker layer of gold than standard plating, for a deeper, richer colour. You choose the thickness and we quote to the thickness you choose (thicker plating costs more). | Prestige and keepsake designs |
| Silver plated | Bright, clean, mirror-like | Most colour schemes |
| Nickel plated | Bright, clean silver tone | Everyday, neutral designs |
| Brass plated | Warm, buttery yellow, softer than gold | A traditional look |
| Copper plated | Warm, reddish shine | Earthy and heritage palettes |
| Black nickel plated | Dark gunmetal with a polished sheen | Making bright enamel colours stand out |
Antique finishes: aged, with extra depth
On an antique finish the recessed areas are darkened and the raised metal is brightened, so texture and fine detail stand out.
- Antique gold: rich gold with aged depth, less shiny than polished gold.
- Antique silver: soft, aged silver with a vintage feel.
- Antique brass: warm and heirloom-like.
- Antique copper (often called bronze): a deep, warm brown with darkened recesses, like an old coin or medal. A natural choice for third-place awards.
- Antique nickel: cool, pewter-like grey.
Coloured metal: dyed finishes
- Dyed badges: the metal itself is coloured, in any colour you like with Pantone matching, so the outline becomes part of your colour scheme.
- Black dyed badges: solid, matt-looking black metal that makes enamel colours look especially vivid.
Something different: iridescent
Iridescent plating gives the metal a rainbow, oil-slick effect that shifts through blues, purples and golds as the badge moves.
Does plating wear?
Plating is a surface finish. Over time and with regular wear it can gradually wear away, revealing the base metal underneath, as our gold plating explainer describes. An epoxy dome adds a smooth, protective layer over the enamel on the front.
How long do plated badges take?
Usually 3–4 weeks from artwork approval, or 4–5 weeks in busier periods. A complex design or bigger badge can add time.
Choosing: three quick questions
- Is your design detailed or textured? Try an antique finish.
- Are your colours bright? Black nickel or black dyed will make them stand out.
- Want it to look classic? Polished gold or silver is the safe choice.
Still unsure? Our free design service can help you choose a finish, and you can ask for free samples of existing badges in the finishes you’re considering when you request a quote.
Frequently asked questions
Can I have nickel-free plating?
If you need nickel-free plating, mention it when you ask for a quote and our sales team will advise. See nickel plating.
Can I see a finish before I order?
We send free samples of our existing products, so you can see and feel the finishes in person. A sample made to your own design is also possible. It’s charged, and we’ll quote it just like an order.
Does plating wear off?
Plating is a surface finish, so with regular wear it can gradually wear away. An epoxy dome adds a protective layer over the enamel.
How long do plated badges take?
Usually 3–4 weeks from artwork approval, or 4–5 weeks in busier periods. A complex design or bigger badge can add time.
Is there a minimum order?
No. There’s no minimum order.
Ready to choose your finish?
Pick your badge style on our enamel badges page and send your design through the quote form there. We’ll come back with a free design proof and quote. No minimum order.
Choose your badge and get a quoteor call 01922 285 582