Custom Medal Materials and Finishes – A Complete Guide to Premium Medal Design

Introduction

A medal’s impact is determined not only by its design, but also by the material and finish behind it.
The type of metal you choose influences:

• Weight
• Durability
• Texture
• Shine
• Overall perceived value

Whether you’re designing medals for sports events, corporate recognition, military honors, or school achievements, selecting the right material and finish is critical for creating a powerful, memorable award.

1. Zinc Alloy – The Most Popular and Versatile Choice

Zinc alloy is the most widely used material for custom medals due to its versatility and cost-effectiveness.

Why Choose Zinc Alloy?

• Ideal for 3D sculpted designs
• Great for custom shapes
• Lightweight yet durable
• Smooth surface for enamel coloring
• Cost-effective for small or large orders

Perfect for sports medals, corporate awards, and schooling events.

2. Brass – Premium Quality and Sharp Detail

Brass medals are chosen for high-end premium awards.

Advantages:

• Sharpest engraving clarity
• Luxurious weight and feel
• Ideal for antique finishes
• Long-lasting durability

Brass is often used for:

• Government awards
• Military-style medals
• VIP ceremonies
• Collectible commemorative medals

3. Iron – Strong, Durable, and Budget-Friendly

Iron is a strong and affordable option for simple medal designs.

Best For:

• Classic 2D medals
• Large-scale marathon or sports events
• Schools and youth competitions

Iron provides durability and a comfortable weight, making it ideal for mass events.

4. Stainless Steel – Modern and Sleek

For brands that value a clean, modern, minimalistic look, stainless steel is an excellent choice.

Features:

• Extremely durable
• Corrosion-resistant
• Stylish metallic tone
• Ideal for laser engraving

Often used for corporate medals, tech event awards, and minimalist-style recognition.

5. Choosing the Right Medal Finish

A medal’s finish determines its visual emotion — whether luxurious, traditional, modern, or vintage.

✅ 1. Gold Plating

Symbolizes prestige, victory, and excellence.
Perfect for champions and top achievers.

✅ 2. Silver Plating

Represents elegance, balance, and professionalism.

✅ 3. Bronze & Antique Bronze

Ideal for classical, historical, or military-style medals.

✅ 4. Black Nickel / Matte Black

Modern, bold, tech-inspired look — popular for esports or corporate medals.

✅ 5. Dual Plating (Gold + Silver)

High-end award style with striking contrast.

6. Surface Effects: Bringing Texture and Depth to Life

⭐ 3D Relief Sculpting

Adds depth and realism — perfect for faces, animals, or architectural elements.

⭐ Sandblasting / Matte Texture

Soft, smooth, and sophisticated finish that enhances contrast.

⭐ Brushed Metal

Creates a professional, industrial aesthetic.

⭐ High Polish Mirror Effect

Shiny, luxurious surface ideal for premium awards.

⭐ Soft Enamel / Hard Enamel Coloring

Adds vibrant colors to logos, slogans, and emblems.

7. Ribbon Matching – The Final Touch

The ribbon is not just an accessory — it completes the medal’s character.

Ribbon choices include:

• Satin smooth ribbons
• Gradient color ribbons
• Printed logo ribbons
• National flag stripes
• Custom brand colors

A perfect ribbon enhances the medal’s identity and emotional impact.

8. How to Choose the Best Material for Your Project

This ensures your medal fits its purpose, budget, and emotion.

Conclusion

Choosing the right material and finish is the foundation of designing a custom medal that stands out.
Every metal type creates a different emotional experience — from luxury and heritage to modern simplicity.

At our factory, we help you choose the perfect combination to bring your vision to life — creating medals that people cherish for decades.

👉 Contact us to start designing your custom medal with the perfect material and finish.