What is PVD-plated stainless steel?
Durability and plating of our jewelry
Resistant to EVERYTHING: water, the sea, swimming pools, sweat, creams/oils…
At MIMA, all our jewelry is made of stainless steel, a metal known for its natural strength and exceptional corrosion resistance.
For our gold-plated versions, each piece of jewelry is coated with PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) plating in 18/24-karat gold. This process involves vaporizing the gold metal in a vacuum chamber, then depositing it atom by atom onto the jewelry. The result: an ultra-adherent, thin layer of gold, uniform and durable, which protects the metal and preserves its shine over time.
Our silver-colored models retain their original color: polished silver-colored stainless steel with a natural shine. Without plating, it keeps its light and luminous hue without tarnishing, even when exposed to water or everyday products.
Thanks to the combination of stainless steel and PVD, all our jewelry—gold or silver-colored—is made to be worn every day, without ever having to take it off.
The PVD process is not only used in jewelry making: it is also adopted by many renowned watchmaking houses for its durability and resistance qualities. Prestigious brands such as TAG Heuer, Hublot, Omega, and Longines use it for their cases.
The choice of these metals was not made by chance: it is the result of months of research and testing on my part, to find the ideal combination of durability, comfort, and aesthetics. Every piece of jewelry I create is designed so that you can wear it 24/7, with complete confidence, without compromising on quality or shine.
Here are some articles on PVD coatings:
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S025789722300796X?utm.com
- https://www.tuofa-cncmachining.com/fr/tuofa-blog/pvd-stainless-steel.html
- https://fr.kindle-tech.com/faqs/what-is-pvd-coating-on-stainless-steel-jewelry
- https://www.perlesandco.com/ressources/ft26711-traitement-en-pvd-pour-l-acier-inoxydable-dore.html
What stones are used for jewelry?
At MIMA, each piece of jewelry is conceived as a unique creation, crafted around genuine stones carefully selected for their beauty, energy, and radiance.
Cultured pearls
Cultured pearls are renowned for their delicate luster and natural elegance. Created through time-honored techniques, they are formed in oysters or mussels with human intervention, yet retain all the authenticity and magic of a natural treasure. Each pearl is unique in its hue, brilliance, and pearly reflections, bringing a touch of timeless refinement to the jewelry.
Precious stones
There are only four precious stones: diamond, ruby, sapphire, and emerald.
Rare and highly coveted, they are distinguished by their hardness, exceptional brilliance, and powerful symbolic value. They are timeless gems, often associated with elegance and strength.
Semi-precious stones
Semi-precious stones, formerly known as "semi-precious," include all other natural stones used in jewelry: garnet, moonstone, quartz, tourmaline, amethyst, labradorite, agate, carnelian, aventurine, and many more.
They offer a wide variety of colors, textures, and reflections, and are often chosen for their symbolism and unique character.
MIMA's commitment
Each of these stones has its own nuances, textures, and sometimes natural inclusions that make it unique. It is these little peculiarities that give them all their charm: no two pieces of jewelry are exactly alike.
At MIMA, we carefully select each stone for its beauty, quality, and the energy it radiates. Wearing a piece of jewelry adorned with semi-precious stones means choosing an authentic piece full of meaning.
How do I care for my MIMA jewelry?
MIMA jewelry is designed to accompany you in everyday life. It withstands water, showering, the sea, the pool, and moderate physical activity thanks to its 316L stainless steel base, with PVD plating for the gold-tone models.
316L stainless steel is a durable, resistant material that is suitable for regular use. PVD plating, used on the gold-tone models, provides a longer-lasting color than traditional plating. However, as with any jewelry, a few simple steps can help preserve its shine for longer.
To ensure the longevity of your jewelry, avoid direct contact with harsh chemicals and cosmetics: household products (bleach, concentrated vinegar, descalers, solvents...) and skincare products such as physical and chemical exfoliants, peels, skin-lightening creams, hair dye, self-tanning products , and spraying perfume or hairspray directly onto the jewelry.
After swimming in the sea or pool, or after physical activity, it is recommended to rinse your jewelry with clean water, then gently dry it with a soft cloth. This helps remove salt, chlorine, or sweat residue, which can dull the finish over time.
The semi-precious stones I use are vibrant and unique, just like the jewelry that showcases them. They evolve with you, and some minor impurities may accumulate on them over time. To preserve their shine, I recommend gentle, regular cleaning with a soft brush and a little clean water. This simple step will be enough to revive their natural brilliance while respecting the delicacy of the stone.
Cultured pearls are naturally more delicate than stainless steel or natural stones. They can withstand everyday water exposure, but should be protected from chlorine, prolonged immersion, and heat sources to preserve their natural nacre. For example, avoid prolonged direct sunlight, hair dryers, radiators, or storing them in a very dry place. To preserve their natural luster, avoid repeated contact with shampoos, shower gels, and hair care products. After exposure to seawater, chlorinated water, or cleansing products, gently rinse them with clean water, then dry them carefully without rubbing.
To preserve your jewelry over time, also avoid impacts, pulling, and repeated rubbing, which can lead to premature wear or breakage. It is best to remove your jewelry during manual activities, intense sports, or when the jewelry is at risk of getting caught, crushed, or subjected to excessive strain.
When you are not wearing them, store your jewelry away from moisture, direct light, heat, and rubbing against other pieces.
These simple steps help preserve the shine and longevity of your jewelry. Any damage caused by failure to follow the care instructions above cannot be considered a manufacturing defect.