Surface treatment for jewelry, goldsmithing, and fashion accessories between tradition and innovation.

Now in its third edition, the workshop dedicated to surface finishes—organized in collaboration with A.I.F.M. (Italian Association for Metal Finishing)—aims to share the latest developments in surface treatment technologies and foster dialogue among all stakeholders involved in the production of jewelry, goldsmithing, and fashion accessories.

Experts from the academic world will present recent advancements in the field, with a particular focus on: cost and metal consumption reduction in electroplating industries, new finishing treatments, and the use of cutting-edge technologies and Artificial Intelligence in the electrodeposition of precious metals.

Speakers will include: Massimo Innocenti (University of Florence), Walter Giurlani (University of Florence), and Luca Magagnin (Politecnico di Milano and President of A.I.F.M.).

11:30 – Welcome and Introduction

11:40 – COST AND METAL CONSUMPTION REDUCTION IN THE ELECTROPLATING INDUSTRY
Massimo Innocenti, Associate Professor – Department of Chemistry 'Ugo Schiff'; University of Florence

There is growing interest in scientific research within the field of metal finishing, and the demand for durable metals and adaptable production processes is increasing across a wide range of applications, including jewelry. In this context, alloy plating provides improved responses in terms of economic growth and environmental sustainability, thanks to the optimization of composition, morphology, and crystallinity.
This presentation will examine current trends in research on alloy electrodeposition in the jewelry sector, highlighting open challenges and process innovations from an industrial perspective. Special attention will be given to advancements in industrial quality control and practical solutions for reducing the content of precious metals in electroplated accessories, as well as the replacement of cyanide and nickel baths with non-toxic compounds.

12:00 – INNOVATIVE METHODS FOR THE FABRICATION AND ANALYSIS OF COATINGS
Walter Giurlani, Researcher – Department of Chemistry 'Ugo Schiff'; University of Florence

The evolution of coating technologies requires increasingly precise and efficient methods for the creation and characterization of surfaces. The focus is on solutions that enhance coating performance in terms of durability, adhesion, and corrosion resistance, without compromising the sustainability of the processes. In this context, the integration of advanced analytical techniques with innovative deposition approaches opens new perspectives for the development of high value-added products. During the presentation, the most recent methodologies for the precise control of the final characteristics of coatings and more reliable prediction of their performance will be explored. Advances in deposition processes and their industrial implications will also be highlighted, with a focus on applications in decorative coating and jewelry sectors.

12:20 – TECHNOLOGIES AND CHALLENGES IN ELECTROPLATING PROCESSES
Luca Magagnin, Full Professor – Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering "Giulio Natta"; Politecnico di Milano & President of A.I.F.M.

Electroplating is one of those processes that has profoundly influenced human life since its discovery centuries ago. It has widespread applications in various fields, from everyday objects to commercial and industrial products.
Recent developments in electroplating processes focus on making the technique more sustainable by reducing its environmental impact. The integration of innovative materials and technologies, along with the creation of new applications and products, is paving the way for new opportunities in the near future.
With the rise of artificial intelligence (AI), its integration into the electroplating industry—particularly in automated processes—can help renew this technology, ensuring its relevance and efficiency in the modern world.
The presentation will offer a critical discussion on some of these aspects, with particular attention to surface finishing.

12:40 – Open Discussion and Closing Remarks

13:00 – End of Meeting

In partnership with A.I.F.M. - Associazione Italiana Finiture dei Metalli

Please note the event is in Italian - simultaneous translation is not provided