Enamel Pin Grading System
Each enamel pin I create is crafted using a detailed process that involves filling, plating, and polishing by hand. Because enamel pins are individually handmade, slight variations and imperfections inevitable but do not distract from their quality or charm.
To help you understand enamel pin quality, I’ve adopted a clear grading system to ensure you know exactly what to expect when you purchase a pin from me. Please note that every artist has their own standard of pin grading, so please read through to assure you understand mine!
How I Inspect My Pins
During the grading process, pins are inspected next to a window with natural lighting at a little closer than arms length. Each pin is polished with a microfiber cloth before inspection. The front, back and sides of the pin will be looked at, though the front of the pin is taken into the absolute highest consideration. Imperfections on back of the pin are usually not considered in the grading process unless it interferes with functionality or indicates an issue (such as a loose / broken pin back or premature tarnishing of the metal). If flaws are few and barely noticeable, the pin will be accepted as A-grade. If a flaw is immediately noticeable or there are many of them, it will be dropped in grade.
Standard / A-grade Pins - High Quality Pins
Standard or A-grade pins meet my highest quality standard. These pins may contain minor imperfections as a result of the production process that are barely noticeable and would be undetectable from a distance. This is the best choice for collecting and displaying.
Standard / A-grade is default for the pins listed in my shop. Unless it is otherwise noted, assume a pin to be standard / A-grade.
Examples of A-grade Imperfections
- Light / tiny scratches or scuffing on the front surface that are difficult to see head-on, but may be noticeable at a certain angle.
- Very tiny air bubbles or spots in the enamel
- Small indentations on the metal or enamel
- Very minor under-fill or overfill of enamel
- Very minor spots or area of discoloration of the metal
- Minor offsets in screen-printing (when applicable)
- Slightly uneven distribution of glitter (when applicable)
Seconds / B-grade Pins - Flawed but Full of Character
B-Grade enamel pins may have more noticeable imperfections but it does not detract from their charm and wearability. They’re a great option for those seeking a budget-friendly way to enjoy my pin designs. If you plan to wear your pin on a jacket or bag this may be a good option to consider, as worn pins tend to experience wear-and-tear.
Seconds / B-grade pins will always be indicated in both the main image and title of a pin listing to assure it's clearly understood.
Examples of B-grade Imperfections
- Larger scratches, scuffs, dents or visible marks on the metal
- Visible dents, smudges, scratches or air bubbles in the enamel
- Visible specks, dust or hair in the enamel
- Noticeably under-filled or overfilled areas of enamel
- More pronounced discoloration of the metal
- Missing small metal lines
- More pronounced misalignment in the screen printing, noticeable scratches or smudging in screen printing (when applicable)
- More pronounced uneven distribution of glitter (when applicable)
Other / C-grade Pins - Perfectly Flawed Freebies
C-Grade enamel pins have significant flaws that make them unsuitable for sale, but they are still functional and completely wearable. These pins may be included as freebies in some orders.
Examples of C-grade Imperfections
- Deep gouges, scratches, scuffs, or marks in the metal or enamel
- Very noticeable dents or uneven surfaces on the metal or enamel
- Significant or multiple air bubbles, dust, specs in the enamel
- Large or multiple areas of missing enamel
- Incorrect color or fill of enamel
- Large area of metal discoloration
- Large area of missing metal plating
- Substantial misalignment in the design or screen printing (when applicable)
- Significantly misapplied glitter (when applicable)
- Broken or missing posts
A Note on Perfection
While the concept of "S-grade" (completely flawless) pins exists, it is not something I currently offer or grade for. At the end of the day, it is incredibly difficult to demand perfection with any handmade item. Factors such as the precision of enamel fill, the polishing process, and even minute changes during manufacturing may lead to subtle imperfections.
These imperfections are not flaws in the traditional sense, but are a natural result of the production process. If you value absolute precision and are seeking pins with no visible imperfections, then please reconsider your purchase. However, for collectors and fans who appreciate the artistry behind these little creations, subtle imperfections do not distract from their appeal.