The Art of the Nib: Gold, Gold-Plated, and Rhodium Types of Fountain Pen Nibs Explained.
- Burak Şahin
- 11 May
- 2 dakikada okunur
🖋️ Introduction
The nib of a fountain pen is more than just a writing tool—it’s the soul of the pen. It determines the feel of your handwriting, the expression of ink on paper, and even the personality of your pen. In this guide, we explore the most common and beloved nib materials: solid gold, gold-plated, and rhodium-plated nibs.
Types of Fountain Pen Nibs: Gold Gold-Plated and Rhodium Explained
🪙 Solid Gold Nibs
Gold nibs are prized for their smooth writing experience and long-term durability. Most commonly available in 14k and 18k variations, gold nibs are both flexible and corrosion-resistant.
Feel & Flexibility: Gold nibs often adapt to your writing style over time, creating a customized experience.
Durability: The tip of a gold nib is usually reinforced with a hard metal like iridium to ensure it withstands years of writing.
Appearance: Gold nibs offer a classic, warm look that appeals to many collectors.
18k gold nib (jowo #6)
💰 Gold-Plated Nibs
Gold-plated nibs offer a budget-friendly alternative to solid gold while maintaining a luxurious appearance. They consist of a steel base covered in a thin layer of gold.
Affordability: Perfect for beginners or casual users who admire the look of gold.
Drawbacks: The gold layer may wear off over time, especially with frequent use.
Writing Quality: While not as smooth or flexible as gold, modern gold-plated nibs still perform well.
Gold Plated Nib (Pelikan)
⚪ Rhodium-Plated Nibs
Rhodium is a rare and reflective metal from the platinum group. Rhodium-plated nibs—often plated over gold—combine beauty and durability.
Shiny & Modern Look: Rhodium provides a bright silver finish that resists tarnishing.
Scratch Resistance: It adds a layer of protection over softer materials like gold.
Neutral Aesthetic: Rhodium-plated nibs pair well with silver trim pens for a cohesive design.
🧠 Choosing the Right Nib
Your choice depends on your writing needs and personal preferences. Gold nibs offer flexibility and prestige, gold-plated nibs are stylish and affordable, and rhodium-plated nibs strike a balance between beauty and protection.
