What are medals really made of?  Not all gold medals are solid gold. And some aren't even metal at all. Medals have a long history of honoring achievement. Their materials reflect tradition, value, and creativity. In this post, you'll learn what materials medals are made of, how they've changed over time, and why it matters today.

What Are Medals Made Of?

When you hold a medal, have you ever wondered what it's actually made of? It might look like solid gold or silver, but in most cases, it's not. The materials behind a medal can vary a lot depending on its purpose, who it's for, and how much it costs to produce. Some are made to impress. Others are made to last. And some just need to fit the budget.

Metal Materials in Medals

Most traditional medals use metal as the core material. Gold medals today are usually not made of solid gold. Instead, they're mostly silver or base metal, then coated in a thin layer of gold. Silver medals often use sterling silver, which is about 92.5 percent pure silver. Bronze medals typically come from a mix of copper and zinc, sometimes known as red brass. Brass itself is another popular choice, giving a warm yellow tone at a lower cost. For high-volume or budget-focused events, materials like zinc alloy or stainless steel are often used. These offer decent weight, good durability, and flexible surface treatment options.

Non-Metal Alternatives

Not every medal has to shine like metal. Some use wood, especially birch or plywood, to give a natural and eco-friendly look. These are often chosen for sustainability awards or nature-themed events. Acrylic is another flexible material that can be printed, cut, and shaped easily. It works well when bold colors or layered effects are needed. Then there's glass and crystal. These materials give medals a high-end, premium feel. They're common in corporate awards or elegant recognition ceremonies.

How to Choose the Right Material

Choosing the right material depends on what you want the medal to say. If it's for a major international event, something precious or symbolic might be best. If it's for a school contest or a local race, you might go for something light and affordable. Consider how heavy the medal should be, how it will look on stage or in photos, and whether it needs to be engraved or printed. For large events, cost and production time also matter. Here's a quick guide to help:

Every material has its own story. And the one you pick will shape how your medal feels and what it stands for.

Metal Materials Used in Medals

When it comes to medals, metal is still the top choice for most awards. But not all metals are the same. Some medals look expensive but are actually plated. Others use blends that balance cost, color, and strength. Let's break down what really goes into these shiny symbols of achievement.

Gold Medals: Are They Really Made of Gold?

The short answer is no. Gold medals today are almost never made of solid gold. That would cost a fortune and make the medal extremely heavy. Instead, most gold medals are made of silver or another base metal, then coated in a thin layer of real gold. This keeps the look but cuts the price. Major events often follow a minimum plating standard. For example, Olympic gold medals must contain at least 6 grams of gold. That layer is usually just enough to create a bright, lasting finish. It's shiny, it's symbolic, but it's not solid.

Silver Medals: Purity and Composition

Silver medals are often made from sterling silver. This type of silver contains about 92.5 percent pure silver and a small amount of copper to increase strength. If a medal says it's sterling, it may have a small stamp or hallmark to show it meets international purity standards. Some high-end medals go even higher in silver content, especially if durability isn't a top concern. The shine of sterling silver looks elegant and stays that way with good care.

Bronze Medals: What is Bronze Made Of?

Bronze is more than just a dull brown metal. It's usually made by mixing copper with a bit of tin or zinc. One popular type is red brass, which has a warm reddish tone and good strength. Bronze is used because it's affordable, long-lasting, and still feels like a real achievement. It may not have the flash of gold or silver, but it's a strong choice for third place. It also resists wear and doesn't tarnish easily, which helps it keep its look over time.

Brass, Zinc Alloy, and Stainless Steel

For large events or budget awards, these metals are often the go-to choice. Brass has a nice yellow color and feels solid without costing too much. Zinc alloy is even cheaper, yet it can be molded into detailed shapes. It's often plated to mimic gold or silver. Stainless steel stands out for its modern, clean look and great corrosion resistance. It won't rust, and it holds up well to wear. These metals are perfect when durability, cost, and custom design all matter.

Here's a simple comparison chart to show what each metal offers:

Non-Metal Materials for Medals

Not all medals are made of metal. In fact, some of the most eye-catching and meaningful designs today use non-metal materials. These offer fresh looks, lighter weight, and often lower environmental impact. They also allow for creative shapes, colors, and textures that you just can't get with traditional metal finishes. Let's take a closer look at three popular alternatives.

Wooden Medals: Eco-Friendly Options

Wood medals are growing in popularity, especially for events that promote sustainability or outdoor themes. Common materials include birch and plywood, both of which are strong enough for everyday use but light in the hand. When sourced from certified forests, they meet eco-labels like FSC or PEFC. This shows the wood was responsibly harvested. The natural grain patterns give each medal a unique look. Plus, wood works well for laser engraving, which adds fine detail without paint or plating.

Wooden medals are ideal for:

• Marathons and nature events

• Youth or school programs

• Brands that focus on green values

They're also very light, which means less strain when worn and lower shipping costs for large orders.

Acrylic Medals: Modern and Customizable

Acrylic is a type of plastic that can be crystal clear or full of color. It's easy to shape, stack, and print on, which makes it perfect for medals that want to stand out. You can layer acrylic for a 3D effect or combine transparent and solid colors for a bold visual impact. It's a favorite for modern competitions, digital art events, or anything needing a strong visual pop.

Designers love acrylic because:

• It supports full-color UV printing

• It can be laser cut into any shape

• It's lightweight and shatter-resistant

It may not feel as heavy as metal, but that's often a benefit for fast-paced events or children's awards.

Glass and Crystal Medals: Premium Look and Feel

When a medal needs to look luxurious, glass or crystal is often the answer. These materials offer a polished, high-end finish that's perfect for formal ceremonies, corporate awards, or top-tier recognition. They reflect light beautifully and can be etched with names, logos, or custom artwork. Crystal, especially, gives a refined and weighty feel that people associate with lasting value.

Unlike other options, these medals often come in presentation boxes or stands instead of ribbons. They're meant to be displayed, not worn.

Let's compare these materials in a quick chart:

Olympic Medal Materials: What Are They Made Of?

Olympic medals are more than awards. They represent national pride, history, and incredible human effort. So, it's no surprise they follow strict rules when it comes to materials. People often imagine Olympic gold medals are solid gold. That's not the case. Their design must balance symbolism, durability, and cost while still meeting international standards.

Composition of Olympic Gold, Silver, and Bronze Medals

Olympic gold medals are not made of solid gold. They start as sterling silver, which means at least 92.5 percent pure silver. Then they get a thin layer of real gold plating. The rule requires a minimum of 6 grams of gold on the surface. It gives the medal its golden color and prestige without making it too expensive or heavy.

Silver medals are a bit more straightforward. They are usually made of solid sterling silver. These look bright, elegant, and timeless. Bronze medals, however, come from a copper-based alloy. Most are made of red brass, which includes about 95 percent copper and a small amount of zinc. It gives them a deep color and a sturdy feel.

Here's a quick breakdown:

Special Examples

Olympic host cities often add unique touches to their medal designs. For Paris 2024, a small piece of iron from the Eiffel Tower was placed in the center of each medal. This made each one feel like a piece of French history. The metal was taken from original sections of the tower that had been removed during restoration.

In Tokyo 2020, the medals came from recycled materials. Japan launched a nationwide project to collect used electronics, like phones and laptops. The extracted metals, including gold, silver, and copper, were used to craft all the medals. This was the first time every Olympic medal was fully made from recovered urban mining.

Why Olympic Medals Follow Strict Composition Rules

Because these medals are awarded on the world stage, fairness and transparency matter. The International Olympic Committee sets guidelines to make sure all athletes receive medals of consistent quality, no matter the host city. These rules help control costs and keep designs rooted in tradition. They also leave space for each host country to add cultural details without changing the core material standards.

How to Test What a Medal is Made Of

Sometimes, what looks like gold or silver isn't what you think. You can't always tell a medal's material just by looking. That's where testing comes in. For a fast and reliable way to find out what's inside, many people use a tool called an XRF analyzer.

Introduction to XRF Analyzers

XRF stands for X-ray fluorescence. It may sound complicated, but the idea is simple. The device shoots a tiny beam of X-rays at the surface of a medal. When the rays hit, the atoms inside react and give off signals. The analyzer reads those signals and shows what elements are present. This whole process takes just a few seconds.

XRF tools don't damage the medal. There's no cutting, scraping, or melting involved. That makes them a good choice for collectors, recyclers, and manufacturers who need results quickly without ruining the item.

Quick Metal Identification and Composition Analysis

Let's say you have a medal that looks gold-plated. You want to know what's underneath. An XRF scan can tell you if it's brass, zinc alloy, or even sterling silver. It breaks down the percentages of each metal. You can see if there's real gold or just a coating. That's helpful when you're checking the value of older medals or confirming purity levels for official awards.

This is also how people check for things like lead or other restricted elements in low-cost medals.

Here's a sample of what an XRF report might show:

That example points to a brass-based alloy. If it were silver or gold, you'd see those elements listed instead.

Use in Sorting, Recycling, and Authentication

XRF is useful far beyond the awards industry. It helps recycling centers sort different types of metal fast. That way, they don't waste time or money mixing materials. It also supports e-waste recovery projects where every gram of valuable metal counts.

Collectors and appraisers use XRF to confirm if a medal is genuine. Is it made of what it claims to be? Was it plated correctly? Are there any hidden materials that shouldn't be there? One quick scan answers all of that.

So, whether you're a curious student, a serious medal maker, or just trying to separate real gold from the rest, XRF makes the job easier and a lot more accurate.

Why Material Matters in Medal Manufacturing

Choosing the right material for a medal isn't just about cost or color. It affects how the medal looks, feels, and holds up over time. Whether it's for a local race or a global competition, the material you pick will shape the entire result. Let's look at the key reasons why it matters so much.

Durability, Weight, and Appearance

Some materials scratch easily. Others last for years without fading or breaking. If a medal is going to be worn, shipped, or displayed for a long time, it needs to stay strong. Metals like stainless steel and bronze hold up well in all kinds of conditions. Zinc alloy, on the other hand, is cheaper but softer. It may dent more easily.

Weight also plays a big role. Heavy medals feel serious and valuable. Lighter ones are easier to wear and better for kids or large events. A crystal or stainless steel medal feels very different than one made of wood or acrylic. Visual appeal matters too. Shiny metals like polished brass or gold plating catch the light. Wood gives off a warm, natural tone. Acrylic allows for bold colors and layered effects.

Here's a simple chart comparing common medal materials:

Engraving Quality and Finish

Engraving is a big part of custom medals. The material you choose affects how sharp and clean those details turn out. Harder metals like stainless steel give crisp lines when engraved or etched. Softer ones like zinc alloy or wood might blur or wear down faster.

Finish also varies. Some materials polish to a mirror shine. Others work better with matte or antique styles. Crystal and glass can be etched on the surface or frosted for contrast. Wood can take laser engraving, but not fine details like metal. And acrylic lets you print full-color images directly on the surface.

Each material handles engraving in its own way:

Suitability for Plating or Coating

Not all materials take plating the same way. Zinc alloy and brass are popular bases because they bond well with gold, silver, or antique coatings. This allows a medal to look expensive without using costly core metals. Stainless steel, while durable, is harder to plate. It's usually left bare or engraved instead.

Wood and acrylic don't get plated at all. Instead, they're painted, printed, or sealed with clear coatings to protect the surface. Crystal medals rely on etching or embedded design instead of any added layers.

If you want a medal that looks like gold or silver but costs less, choosing a base metal that supports plating well is key. If your design relies on full-color art or transparency, then materials like acrylic or crystal make more sense.

Different Medal Types and Their Common Materials

Not all medals are made for the same reason. Each type of medal serves a different purpose, and the materials used often reflect that. Whether it's for honoring service, celebrating a win, or marking a milestone, the look and feel of the medal should match its meaning.

Military Medals

Military medals are built to last. They often use strong metals like bronze or brass. These materials don't just hold up over time, they also carry a sense of tradition. Bronze is especially popular because it has a deep, classic color and doesn't corrode easily. Some medals are plated in gold or silver to increase their visual impact. These are meant to be worn with pride, stored for generations, and passed down. Engraving is common, and the details need to stay sharp for decades.

Sports and Competition Medals

In sports, medals need to be practical and eye-catching. They're often made of light metals like zinc alloy or aluminum. Acrylic is also a top choice, especially for events with colorful logos or unique designs. These medals can be shaped, printed, and plated in almost any way. They don't weigh much, which is better for athletes or large-scale events where hundreds are handed out. Gold, silver, and bronze finishes are standard, but custom colors and designs make them stand out.

Academic and Graduation Medals

These medals celebrate personal milestones, so they focus on elegance and customization. Brass is widely used because it gives a rich look without the high cost. Zinc alloy is another common material since it can handle complex shapes and text. Schools often include their crest, student name, or date. These details are engraved or molded into the design. The medals are usually medium in size, worn with ribbons, or presented in a box.

Corporate and Recognition Medals

Recognition medals in business or organizations aim to look professional. Materials like crystal, glass, or brushed metal are used to impress. These medals are more likely to sit on a desk or in a display case than be worn. Branding is key, so logos and messages must be clear and stylish. Crystal medals offer weight and shine, while brushed stainless steel provides a modern, high-end feel. These are often packed in custom boxes and paired with certificates.

Conclusion

Medals are crafted from many materials, from metals like bronze and silver to wood, acrylic, and crystal. Each type serves a different purpose. Choosing the right one depends on your message, budget, and how you want the medal to feel. What it's made of shapes how people remember it—long after the ceremony ends. If you need further assistance, check to to see our products( such as custom medals and blank medals).

FAQs

What are the most common materials used in medals?

Most medals use metals like gold-plated silver, bronze, or brass. Non-metals like wood, acrylic, or crystal are also popular.

Are Olympic gold medals made of solid gold?

No. Olympic gold medals are mostly silver coated with at least 6 grams of pure gold.

Why do some medals use wood or acrylic instead of metal?

Wood and acrylic offer lighter weight, creative design options, and are often more affordable and eco-friendly.

How can I test what material a medal is made of?

XRF analyzers are used to identify the metal composition quickly without damaging the medal.

Which material is best for engraving or custom design?

Metals like brass and stainless steel engrave well. Acrylic is ideal for colorful prints, while crystal offers a premium etched look.