Most Gold Finishes are not actually gold: 23K VS PVD
12 April 2026
Crafts
Gold Tapware: The Difference Is in the Finish
Gold tapware has become a defining element in modern bathrooms and kitchens bringing warmth, contrast, and a refined edge to any space. But when it comes to specifying gold, not all finishes deliver the same result.
While many products on the market rely on standard PVD coatings, at Par Taps we take a more refined approach one grounded in over 40 years of craftsmanship, design excellence, and attention to detail.
Our 23k gold finish represents the pinnacle of this philosophy. Carefully applied to achieve a rich, enduring lustre, it elevates each piece beyond mere function, transforming it into a statement of timeless luxury. Every surface is treated with precision, ensuring not only visual brilliance but also long-lasting durability.
The result is a finish that captures the essence of sophistication where heritage techniques meet modern innovation, and every detail reflects our unwavering commitment to quality.
The Standard: PVD Gold Finishes
PVD (Physical Vapour Deposition) is a widely used coating process designed to replicate the look of metal through a thin, applied layer. It offers an efficient and controlled method for achieving a uniform base finish.
Because it is applied to the surface, the final result can vary depending on substrate and process, sometimes leading to differences in tone and a finish that appears more uniform, yet without the depth or visual consistency of solid or layered metal.
The Par Taps Difference
Our gold finishes are developed with a different priority, how the material is experienced within a space.
Electroplating is a long-established process within the tapware industry, used for over 40 years to produce refined, durable metal finishes. By building the surface through layers of metal, the finish becomes part of the material itself, rather than something applied to it.
The result is a gold finish with:
Greater depth and tonal richness.
A softer, more natural reflection.
A refined, design-led appearance.
A finish that feels considered, not mass-produced.
The difference is clear
For designers and architects, the difference becomes clear in the final result. Where PVD finishes can appear uniform and highly reflective, our gold finish introduces character and balance helping create spaces that feel layered, cohesive, and resolved. It’s not just about colour. It’s about how that finish sits alongside stone, timber, tiles, and joinery.
Discover the elegance for yourself, explore our 23k gold finish collection and find the perfect statement piece to elevate your space.


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