What is rhodium plating in jewelry?

Rhodium plating is the application of a thin layer of rhodium (0.1–0.5 micrometers) onto white gold or silver to create a brilliant white surface. Rhodium is a platinum group metal – very hard, very white, and very resistant to tarnishing.

Why is white gold rhodium plated?

Despite being an alloy, white gold has a slightly yellowish undertone. Rhodium plating makes it brilliantly white – as seen in jewelry stores. Without rhodium plating, the yellow tint would be visible.

How often does white gold need to be rhodium plated?

• Rings worn daily: every 12–18 months
• Jewelry worn occasionally: every 2–3 years
• Cost at the jeweler: 30–60 Euros per piece

Alternative to rhodium plating: Platinum

Platinum is naturally white without any treatment – never requires rhodium plating. For people who want to avoid the hassle of retreatment, platinum is the better long-term investment.

White gold and platinum jewelry: corelunejewellery.de.