DOI: 10.24412/2782-5027-2026-2-66-73
Plakhov V. V., Karakurkchi R. S., Khasieva E. A. Color born of amperage: anodizing titanium as art and technology
Plakhov Vladimir V. — metal artist, engraver, member of the Russian Guild of Weaponry Masters; the International Jewellery School, teacher
E-mail: shtixel.spb@gmail.com
Karakurkchi Roman S. — the International Jewellery School; Director, Teacher of Stone Setting Techniques
E-mail: kr@jewelleryschool.com
Khasieva Elena A. — the International Jewellery School, Project Manager
E-mail: top@jewelleryschool.com
The article is devoted to the technology of anodizing titanium — a method that turns this super-modern structural material into a palette for an artist. Special attention is paid to the physical and chemical basis of interference coloring, which occurs due to the growth of a layer of titanium dioxide of different thickness, which is achieved by regulating the voltage. The practical aspects of the application are being investigated, including the limited color palette (the inability to obtain black, red, and dark orange colors), difficulties with uniform coloring on embossed surfaces, and the impact of different titanium alloys on the final color. Titanium anodization technology, being a delicate process, opens the door to creating not only functional but also visually appealing products. Interference coloring, which is resistant to mechanical abrasion and UV fading, offers exceptional durability, making it an ideal choice for products that require both durability and aesthetic novelty. The most important conclusions are as follows: anodizing titanium allows the creation of unique, long-lasting color effects, but requires precise process control and skill to achieve artistic goals. The technology is successfully synthesized with traditional metalworking techniques, expanding the possibilities of the modern metal artist. It is concluded that titanium anodization has established itself as a 21st-century material for engineers and artists, due to its strength, durability, and aesthetic appeal.
Electrochemical oxidation, incision engraving, inlay, interference coloring, international jewellery school, knife “Gothic”, obron, oxide film, timascus, titanium anodization.