Skip to main content

Electroplating

Chrome, gold, rose gold and metallic mirror finishes for luxury glass bottles.

What Is Electroplating?

Electroplating, also known as vacuum metallisation, deposits a thin layer of metal onto the glass surface to create brilliant metallic finishes. The result is a mirror-like reflective surface that conveys luxury, modernity, and premium quality. This technique is widely used by prestige fragrance brands seeking maximum visual impact on shelf.

The process takes place in a vacuum chamber where vaporised metal particles condense onto the glass surface, building a uniform metallic layer. Available finishes include chrome, gold, rose gold, gun metal, bronze, and rainbow iridescent effects. Both full and partial metallisation are possible, allowing for creative designs where metallic and clear glass zones combine for striking visual contrast.

Electroplated bottles are finished with a protective lacquer that preserves the metallic surface and allows for additional decoration such as screen printing or hot stamping on top of the metallised surface. The technique works on a wide range of bottle shapes and is compatible with both clear and coloured glass substrates.

The Process

1

Surface Preparation

Bottles are thoroughly cleaned and any required masking is applied to define metallic and non-metallic zones. The glass surface must be pristine for even metal deposition.

2

Vacuum Metallisation

Bottles are placed in a vacuum chamber where metal is vaporised and deposited onto the glass surface. The process is precisely controlled to achieve the desired colour, reflectivity, and coating thickness.

3

Protective Lacquering

A clear or tinted lacquer is applied over the metallic surface to protect against handling, oxidation, and wear. Tinted lacquers can shift the base metal colour, creating gold, rose gold, or bronze tones.

4

Quality Assurance

Each bottle is inspected for reflectivity uniformity, colour accuracy, and lacquer coverage. Any bottles with imperfections in the metallic layer are rejected to ensure batch consistency.

Gallery

Gallery images coming soon. Contact our team to request physical samples of electroplating on your chosen bottle shape.

Compatible Bottle Types

Perfume BottlesCandle JarsDiffuser Bottles

Electroplating is available on a wide range of glass formats. Browse our stock range or discuss bespoke options with our team.

Combination Options

Electroplating can be combined with screen printing (text or logos printed over the metallic surface), hot stamping (adding a contrasting foil colour), and partial masking (creating windows of clear glass within a metallised body). Gradient transitions from metallised to clear glass are also achievable.

MOQs & Lead Times

Minimum Order Quantity

From 500 units

Typical Lead Time

3-5 weeks

Frequently Asked Questions

What metallic finishes are available?

We offer chrome (silver mirror), gold, rose gold, gun metal, bronze, copper, and rainbow iridescent finishes. Custom metallic tones can be achieved by varying the base metal and lacquer tint combination.

Can only part of a bottle be electroplated?

Yes, partial metallisation uses masking to create designs where some areas are metallic and others remain clear glass. This creates striking contrast effects and is popular for window designs that reveal the fragrance liquid inside.

Is the metallic finish durable?

The metallic layer is protected by a clear lacquer that provides resistance to handling, fingerprints, and light exposure. The combined metallisation and lacquer system delivers a durable finish suitable for retail environments.

Can you print or stamp on top of an electroplated surface?

Yes, screen printing and hot stamping can be applied on top of the lacquered metallic surface. This allows for branded text, logos, and decorative elements in contrasting colours on the metallic background.

What is the lead time for electroplated bottles?

Lead times for electroplated bottles are typically 3-5 weeks from approval. The vacuum metallisation process requires specialist equipment and careful quality control, which extends the timeline slightly compared to simpler techniques.

Get a Electroplating Quote

Share your bottle shape, quantity, and design requirements with our team. We will provide a detailed quote and timeline for your electroplating project.

Get in Touch