Pin/Keyring Quality Grading

The quality grading is determined primarily by examining the front surface of the pin and not the sides or back. Regardless of the grading, every item from this shop should be fully functional (no broken/missing posts, no broken keychain. If you encounter an item with this issue, please contact me for a refund or replacement.

 

Standard Grade

This is the highest grading of pins and keyrings available and the quality that you should expect to see when purchasing from the shop unless stated otherwise. Due to the hand-made process involved in making the merchandise, minor flaws may be present but should not noticeably take away from the item’s design. 

Example minor flaws may include:

  • Light and difficult to notice scratches, scuffs, or nicks on the surface or enamel or metal plating
  • Small and difficult to notice air bubbles, or discolouration in enamel
  • Minor screen print offsetting
  • Minor imperfections or discolouration on the metal plating
  • Minor imperfections or discolouration on the edge or back of pin
  • Minor bending or looseness of pin post
  • Discolouration and imperfections on the metal surface of split rings, jump rings, and lobster claws.

B Grade 

B Grade pins are sold at a discount due to visible cosmetic flaws on the front and back of the pin. Despite the cosmetic flaws, the pin should otherwise function as normal. At this quality grade, pins are most suitable for wearing.

Example flaws may include:

  • Areas of underfilled or overfilled enamel
  • Air bubbles / pin holes in enamel
  • Discolouration, scratches, cracks, or gouges in enamel
  • Discolouration, scratches, or scuffs on metal plating
  • Small areas of missing metal plating
  • Noticeable dust/dirt stuck onto enamel or screen print
  • Smudged screenprint
  • Bent or loose pin post
  • Discolouration and imperfections on the metal of split rings, jump rings, and lobster claws.

C Grade

This grade will be sold occasionally at the cheapest price. Flaws may include any of the listed above but so much so that it affects the majority of the front surface of the pin. At this quality grade, pins may still be suitable for wearing on outdoor apparel or accessories.