Independently tested by Eurofins EAG Materials Science
The cleaned, tested surface was composed primarily of titanium and oxygen, consistent with titanium oxide. Nickel was not detected in the XPS survey.
The surface of titanium is central to TIZZTECH®. Our process creates color through the interaction of light with the surface oxide layer, without paint, plating, or added pigments.
To better understand that surface, we commissioned independent X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, known as XPS. It allows us to examine material details far beyond what the eye can see.
What XPS examines
XPS studies the outermost surface of a material, typically to a depth of approximately five to ten nanometers. A nanometer is one billionth of a meter.
The technique uses X-rays to release electrons from the surface. By measuring their energies, scientists identify the elements present. This sensitivity to such a shallow region makes XPS particularly useful for examining thin surface layers.
For our jewelry, it provides a focused way to investigate the surface involved in our color process.
What the laboratory found
After laboratory cleaning, the analyzed surface consisted primarily of titanium and oxygen, indicative of titanium oxide. Nickel was not detected.
The laboratory also recorded that no change in color was observed after argon-cluster ion-beam cleaning. A smaller amount of carbon remained; its source was not conclusively identified. The report provides the full findings and the laboratory’s interpretation.
These observations give us independent information about the tested surface and its composition.
Why we look this closely
Work at this scale requires dedicated instruments, careful sample preparation, and specialist analysis. We choose to invest in it because the surface is fundamental to the jewelry we create.
Understanding our materials helps us speak about them with greater clarity. Sharing the results lets you see the evidence for yourself, with as much detail as you wish to explore.
The complete report is available below, including the laboratory’s methods, measurements, and observations.
Results apply to the tested surface after laboratory cleaning. XPS alone does not establish the absence of every possible pigment; the cleaning observation is not a long-term durability test.
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