FAQ

Q: What is the difference between Hard and Soft Gold?

A: In a nutshell, gold in it's normal state is considered to be "soft" and therefore pure gold deposits are often called soft gold because the have little if any grain refiners or additives that could make the deposit hard. Hard gold is made when you combine soft gold with either nickel or cobalt which increases the hardness.

Here is some of the technical specifications:

Hard Gold - For gold contact were some sliding wear is required.

Knoop= hardness 130 - 200
Purity= 99.7%
Hardening agents= cobalt or nickel

Soft Gold – is for touching type contact were no wear is required

Knoop hardness= 91 – 115
Purity= 99.9%
No hardening agent added

We hope that this helps. If you need more assistance, please contact us at asktheexpert@ppc1904.com and we can get more specific as it regards your application.