A metal substrate is provided with scratch-, wear- and corrosion-resistant coatings which comprise multiple thin layers of titanium nitride, or titanium carbonitride, or both titanium nitride and titanium carbonitride, and may also contain a layer of aluminum oxide. A preferred coating is provided by alternating layers of titanium nitride and titanium carbonitride. The coatings can inhibit the growth of microcracks that can otherwise result from surface cracks or scratches on coated substrates, and thereby provide improved wear characteristics, resist scratching, and prevent the penetration of corrosive fluids to the substrate material. The coatings are suitable for use in orthopaedic implants.
