DIAMOND GOLD PEARL OVER GRAY | AUTOFLEX COATINGS | TESLA MODEL S
Diamond Gold Pearl | Alpha Automotive Paint | Traditional Paint
Diamond Gold Pearl from Alpha Automotive Paint is a striking traditional paint finish designed for automotive enthusiasts who want subtle sparkle, refined pearl highlights, and professional durability. This custom pearl adds a golden shimmer that shifts beautifully in sunlight, making it perfect for high-end vehicles, custom projects, or restoration builds.
This featured project by Finest Dips Auto Customs showcases the Tesla Model S with a sophisticated Diamond Gold application topped with a matte finish. The combination of shimmer and matte gives a modern, head-turning effect without overpowering the vehicle’s sleek lines.
A Closer Look at the Diamond Gold Pearl Finish
Diamond Gold is formulated using an Alpha Custom Color basecoat system, engineered for excellent pigment control, UV resistance, and long-lasting pearl suspension. Unlike flat gold finishes, this pearl midcoat adds depth and dimension, enhancing contours as light moves across the surface.
The color works perfectly for professional painters and skilled DIYers seeking subtle sparkle that enhances design details. It can be applied across full vehicles, accent panels, or artistic projects for versatile results.
Installer and Product Details
Installer: Finest Dips Auto Customs
Coating: Autoflex Coatings
Pigments needed for this look:
- Factory Tesla Gray paint
- Diamond Gold (15g per sprayable gallon clear basecoat)
- Matte finish
Like all Alpha Custom Colors, Diamond Gold can be used with Alpha Automotive Paint or other high-quality automotive paints. It’s also compatible with epoxy resins, Plastidip, powder coat, nail polish, airbrush paints, bed liners, and many other applications.
Available Formats and Application Options
This color is available in Automotive Paint, Aerosol Spray Cans & Vehicle Paint Kits as well. This makes the color accessible to both professional painters and skilled DIY enthusiasts working in different environments.
The basecoat uses a specialized binder for consistent pearl suspension and color clarity. Proper mixing ensures even coverage, minimizing mottling or striping even on complex surfaces.
Mixing and Product Performance
For optimal results, mix Diamond Gold basecoat at a 1:1 ratio with AR-30xx reducer. This ensures smooth flow, consistent atomization, and uniform coverage.
AP-7541 DTM Primer-Sealer is used in this process to provide outstanding adhesion, flexibility, and fast drying times. Once sealed, the surface is ready to accept the pearl basecoat without compromising color clarity.
The final step uses AC-4521 HS Glamour Clearcoat, which adds long-lasting gloss, UV protection, and chemical resistance. This clearcoat enhances the pearl depth while protecting the finish for years to come.
Project Step-by-Step Guide
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Complete prep, bodywork, priming, and sanding following recommended video tutorials.
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Block-sand exterior panels with 320 grit sandpaper; scuff door jambs, engine bay, and tight areas with a red pad.
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Remove sanding dust and wipe with wax & grease remover.
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Paint door jambs and engine bay first if needed; allow 24 hours before exterior panels.
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Re-mask and wipe surfaces with anti-static wax & grease remover.
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Mix and spray AP-7541 DTM Primer-Sealer (4:1:1 ratio) using a 1.4 mm spray gun. Let dry fully.
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Mix and spray Diamond Gold directly over the sealer. Apply 2–4 coats as needed for coverage and pearl effect.
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Allow each basecoat to dry to the touch. Avoid rushing to prevent uneven pearl distribution.
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After the final basecoat, wait 45 minutes before clearcoat.
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Mix and spray two to three coats of AC-4521 HS Glamour Clearcoat at a 2:1 ratio. Apply each coat when the previous layer is just tacky to the touch.
- Allow the project to cure for at least 12 hours in a warm, well-ventilated area.
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Wet sand and buff if desired; otherwise, unmask and enjoy the finished result.
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