Aloha, fun & authoritative answers -- no cost, no registration, no passwords, no popups
(as an eBay Partner & Amazon Affiliate we earn from qualifying purchases)

Where the
world gathers for metal finishing
Q&As since 1989

-----

Better to gold plate badge accessories or strip them?

I have a U.S.A.F. Fire Protection Badge Fire Fighter. not sure of how old. Guessing within the 10 or 15 years of age. It has a pin back. it is a standard fireman's badge and someone has attempted to gold plate it. A lot, but not all, is is still on. I was wondering what the best course of action would be. To remove plating by polishing and buffing, or to have someone replate it for me. Please tell me what you think.

Thank You,

Doug Martin
janitorial - Wichita Falls, Texas
2003

Hi, Doug. If you have it gold plated, you will have a beautiful final finish that doesn't tarnish and needs no further care or maintenance at all for years. If you strip the gold off, you'll have who-knows-what metal under it, and will have to finish it and maintain it frequently. Easy choice: there's nothing like gold.

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey

(No "dead threads" here! If this page isn't currently on the Hotline your Q, A, or Comment will restore it)

Q, A, or Comment on THIS thread -or- Start a NEW Thread

Disclaimer: It's not possible to fully diagnose a finishing problem or the hazards of an operation via these pages. All information presented is for general reference and does not represent a professional opinion nor the policy of an author's employer. The internet is largely anonymous & unvetted; some names may be fictitious and some recommendations might be harmful.

If you are seeking a product or service related to metal finishing, please check these Directories: