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The Difference Between Plaques and Plates

What are plaques and plates?

As you request quotes and submit orders with Gemini, you may come across the terms “plaques” and “plates.” Often interchanged, the two products are similar yet offer a few distinctions. Our knowledgeable team aims to outline the similarities and differences between plaques and plates so the product you select is best suited for the request.  

What Are Gemini Plaques? 

Plaques are ornamental or informative signs mounted to a wall or post to observe or honor a person, event, or place. They offer permanence for long-lasting communication. The manufacturing process uses machining, casting, etching, or printing. Our facilities manufacture plaques from metal plates, poured from molten ingot, or machined sheet metal. Common applications for plaques include architectural signage, wayfinding, dedications, and tributes. 

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Advantages of Gemini Plaques  Types of Plaques Offered 
  • Permeance in exterior and interior applications 
  • Greater depth options 
  • Ideal for plaques of larger sizes 
  • Free copy changes and personalization 

What Are Gemini Plates?

Gemini plates fall under the plaque category but use a thinner gauge material and offer different uses that distinguish them from other plaques. These thin, metal plates are great additions to objects or flat surfaces, commonly found on equipment and machinery, trophies, and company name badges. Plates provide unique identification for companies, buildings, awards, and recognition. 

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Advantages of Gemini Plates  Types of Plates Offered 
  • Better for bulk orders
  • Thinner gauge options
  • Ideal for interior signage
  • Perfect for smaller signage requests
  • Great for office and commercial space personalization  

Similarities and Differences Between Plaques and Plates 

There are many similarities between plaques and plates, but the most important thing to note is that they are both plaques. To put it simply, every plate is a plaque but not every plaque is a plate. Plaques and plates are made with similar materials but have different purposes and distinctions in the creation process. Both plaques and plates are available in several metal materials. Be sure to check what’s available for each category during the ordering process.

Note: Different metals are offered for each product offering. 

Like plaques, Gemini plates are made of a choice of metal and custom-supplied artwork. However, the difference lies in their usage and depth. Plates are often attached to other objects, like labels for office doors or lockers, while plaques are more frequently hung on walls and freestanding posts. Plates are made of thinner gauge material between .020 in and .050 in while plaques use a thicker gauge material ranging from 1/16 in to 1 in, depending on the product. 

Plaques and Plates for Every Project

With the comparison of plaques and plates, it’s important to note the different uses of the two types of signage. 

Plaques Applications Plate Applications
  • Commemorations 
  • Recognition 
  • Memorialization 
  • Dedications
  • Awards
  • Wayfinding signage
  • ADA signage 





  • Product identification 
  • Corporate branding 
  • Interior signage 
  • Donor recognition 
  • Wayfinding 
  • Name badges 
  • Wallet cards 
  • VIN plates 
  • Tags 
  • Trophies 

Want More Information on Plaques and Plates? 

Gemini has signage to cover every project. Our plaques and plates are expertly crafted to provide customers with long-lasting, made-to-order signage that stands the test of time. Still have questions regarding plaques and plates? Contact our support team for assistance.


More About Plaques


Plaques

Thin Gauge Plaques

 


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