Gold medals

When sourcing gold medals, the base material determines the weight and perceived value. Zinc alloy is the most common choice for 3D designs due to its fluidity in injection molding, while iron or brass are preferred for die-struck medals requiring sharp, 2D details. For the finish, ensure the supplier uses real gold electroplating (18K or 24K) or a high-quality imitation gold (brass plating) with an anti-oxidation electrophoresis coating to prevent tarnishing and fading over time.

The choice between die-casting and die-striking is critical. Die-casting is ideal for complex, multi-level 3D shapes and hollowed-out designs. Die-striking offers a denser feel and cleaner lines for traditional flat designs. Additionally, consider the coloring process: soft enamel provides a recessed textured feel, while hard enamel (cloisonné) offers a premium, smooth, and durable surface that is scratch-resistant.

For international trade, medals must comply with chemical safety regulations. Ensure the products are Lead-Free and Nickel-Free, meeting CPSIA (for the US) or REACH (for the EU) standards, especially if the medals are intended for children's sports events. Request SGS or Intertek lab reports to verify that the metal alloys and neck ribbon dyes do not contain harmful substances.

The ribbon is as important as the medal itself. Specify the material as polyester, nylon, or heat-transfer printed satin. Check for sublimation printing quality to ensure logos are vibrant and won't bleed. The attachment method should be secure; a sewn-in V-stitch is more durable than a simple metal clip for heavy medals.

Always request a pre-production sample before authorizing mass production. Since custom medals require a physical mold, verify the mold engraving accuracy and plating color. Use Made-in-China.com's Secured Trading services to ensure payment is only released after the goods pass a third-party pre-shipment inspection (PSI).

Focus on mold fee waivers for large orders (typically 500+ pieces) and unit price breaks at volume tiers. Negotiate for free artwork design services, as professional suppliers usually have in-house designers. If you have recurring annual events, ask the supplier to store your molds for free for at least 2-3 years to save on future setup costs.

Medals are heavy and high-density, making them prone to high shipping costs. For urgent events, Air Freight is necessary, but for cost-efficiency, Sea Freight or Rail Freight is recommended for bulk orders. Ensure the packaging includes individual polybags or bubble wraps for each medal to prevent scratching during transit, and use double-walled corrugated export cartons reinforced with plastic strapping.

When ordering medals with specific logos (e.g., club crests or corporate brands), provide a Letter of Authorization (LOA) to the supplier. Conversely, ensure the supplier does not sell your custom-molded designs to other buyers by signing a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) or a proprietary mold agreement.