Editor’s Note
**Editor’s Note:** This article highlights Italfimet’s successful development of Dermogold, a nickel-free electroplating bath that meets EU REACH standards, offering hypoallergenic jewelry without compromising on quality.
Nickel is a chemical element used in electroplating with the dual purpose of lightening the color of gold and making metals more resistant, but it can cause allergic reactions or dermatitis upon contact with the skin. Its elimination from electroplating processes has engaged Italfimet to test alternative possibilities using other elements compliant with the EU’s REACH regulation, which sets standards for improving the protection of human health and the environment from risks posed by chemicals. This journey culminated in the formulation of the Dermogold electroplating bath, which allows for a completely nickel-free process while simultaneously producing hypoallergenic jewelry and accessories with the qualities previously guaranteed by nickel. These include color, aesthetics, solidity, and corrosion resistance, thus creating a final product of higher value.
MONTE SAN SAVINO (AR) – A significant milestone in electroplating for the gold and fashion sectors. This achievement was reached by Italfimet of Monte San Savino, founded in 1992 and employing around fifty people, which has developed a “nickel-free” process aimed at completely eliminating this chemical element from the production of jewelry and other accessories, pursuing important benefits in terms of eco-sustainability and the protection of human health. This innovation confirms the company as a leader at the international level in the development of advanced electroplating processes that, thanks to a close synergy between the chemical laboratory and the technical-engineering department, allow for the improvement of the processing of various metals and the raising of general quality standards in the goldsmith sector.
– explains Andrea Capaccioli, laboratory manager of Italfimet –
represented a particularly ambitious challenge that, until a few years ago, seemed impossible to win. We are therefore proud to have now found and verified chemical processes free from this element, with important benefits for consumers and producers of accessories in the fashion, jewelry, and costume jewelry sectors.”
– adds Capaccioli –
is a revolutionary innovation that is the result of a long work of studies and research, testifying to our commitment oriented towards the constant improvement of electroplating baths, eco-sustainability, and the protection of human health.”
