When choosing stainless steel, you should consider different aspects since there are many factors that would determine the price and quality. There are 3 main factors that you should consider:
- Check the grade of stainless steel
- Check the polish quality
- Choose the right plating process
Check the grade of stainless steel
As we have mentioned above, there are 2 commonly used grades, 304 and 316 stainless steel. 316 stainless steel is better and more expensive than 304. Thus, 316 stainless steel is usually applied to high-ended jewelry. However, you can hardly tell two materials from their appearance so that it needs a test if you want to check the grade of stainless steel.
Check the polish quality
While buying stainless steel jewelry, you have to pay close attention to the fine details of the item. Check if the level is even throughout the surface. Further, you can ask the jewelry suppliers or manufacturers about the polishing of the item.
Choose the right plating process
If you want jewelry with lower costs, then you may consider electroplating, which is less expensive. However, if you have the budget to invest in jewelry, then PVD-prepared jewelry would be the best to have an excellent luster effect.