What is rhodium plating in jewelry?
Kurz gesagt:
Rhodium Plating = a very thin layer of rhodium on white gold for a brilliant white color. Have it renewed every 1-2 years (30-60 Euros).
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.
