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Rhodium Plating

Rhodium plating is a finishing process used to enhance the beauty and durability of jewelry, especially for white gold, sterling silver, and platinum jewelry. Learn more in this guide.

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In This Guide
01What Is Rhodium?02What Is Rhodium Plating?03Rhodium Plating Process04Rhodium Plating Cost05Rhodium Plating Cleaning & Care06Rhodium Plating FAQ

What Is Rhodium?

Rhodium is a rare, silvery-white metal from the platinum group of elements. Despite being one of the world's most valuable metals, rhodium is not malleable enough to make jewelry with on its own due to its hardness. Instead, it’s primarily used in jewelry to provide a protective and reflective coating that helps maintain brilliance over time.


Rhodium is characterized by several remarkable properties:


  • It's extremely reflective, providing up to 80% light reflectivity 
  • It's rarer than gold or platinum  
  • It's highly resistant to corrosion and tarnish 
  • It's one of the hardest precious metals, providing excellent scratch resistance 
  • It's naturally hypoallergenic, containing no nickel or common allergens


The scarcity of rhodium contributes to its substantial price — sometimes reaching 8-10 times the price of gold, rhodium is the world's most expensive precious metal. Despite this cost, only a very thin layer is needed for plating, making rhodium plating a practical option for jewelry enhancement.

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What is Rhodium Plating?

Rhodium plating is a process used in jewelry to coat pieces with a thin layer of rhodium. This plating improves the appearance, durability, and resistance to tarnishing, especially in white gold, sterling silver, and platinum jewelry. Rhodium plating also enhances the brightness and gives jewelry a brilliant, mirror-like finish, making it especially popular for engagement rings and wedding bands.

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Rhodium Plated Sterling Silver

Rhodium plated sterling silver offers significant benefits that make it a popular option. Sterling silver, composed of 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals (usually copper), is naturally prone to tarnishing when exposed to air and moisture. Rhodium plating creates a protective barrier that prevents this oxidation, keeping silver jewelry bright and lustrous without requiring frequent polishing.  


The rhodium layer also enhances silver's appearance by providing a whiter, more reflective finish than natural silver's slightly warmer tone. Additionally, rhodium strengthens the relatively soft silver surface, improving scratch resistance. Many higher-end silver jewelry lines come pre-plated with rhodium to enhance quality and durability.


Rhodium Plated White Gold 

White gold is an alloy composed of gold mixed with white metals like silver, palladium, or nickel. Without rhodium plating, most white gold appears slightly yellow or off-white due to gold's natural color. Rhodium plating is applied to enhance white gold's appearance, giving it a bright white finish. 


Rhodium Plated Yellow Gold 

Applying rhodium plating to yellow gold dramatically changes its appearance. While this technique can transform a piece's look, it's generally not recommended as a permanent solution. When rhodium plating wears off yellow gold, the color contrast between the white rhodium and exposed yellow gold is quite noticeable.


Some jewelers opt for rhodium plating on specific areas of yellow gold pieces to create two-tone designs. However, the stark transition when plating wears off makes this approach less practical for most everyday yellow gold jewelry. If considering this option, be prepared for more frequent maintenance to maintain the white appearance.


Rhodium Plated Rose Gold 

Rose gold's warm, pinkish hue comes from its copper content, which creates a striking contrast when rhodium plated. While rhodium plating rose gold is technically possible, it's generally not recommended unless for specific design elements. The stark visual difference between rhodium's bright white surface and rose gold's warm undertones becomes particularly noticeable as the plating inevitably wears. In fact, when rhodium plating wears through on rose gold, the contrast is even more apparent than with yellow gold, creating an uneven appearance that may require frequent maintenance. 


Rhodium Plated Platinum 

Platinum is already a naturally white, tarnish-resistant precious metal, making rhodium plating generally unnecessary. Over time, unplated platinum develops a unique patina that many connoisseurs appreciate as part of its character. However, some jewelers offer rhodium plating for platinum pieces to achieve an extra-bright, mirror-like finish that some customers prefer over platinum's natural subtle luster.


If platinum is rhodium plated, the plating typically lasts longer than on other metals due to the compatible properties between these platinum-group metals. Most jewelry experts recommend keeping platinum in its natural state, as the metal's inherent qualities — such as hypoallergenic properties, durability, and natural white color — are among the primary reasons for choosing platinum in the first place.  


Black Rhodium Plating 

Typically, jewelry is coated in a white rhodium finish, but black rhodium plating is another option where rhodium is alloyed with other elements to create a dark finish. Black rhodium offers the same durability and tarnish resistance as traditional rhodium, but the finish can be less reflective. This type of plating is often seen in fashion jewelry or statement pieces and provides an alternative to the classic white rhodium finish. 


Rhodium Plating Process

Rhodium plating is a specialized electroplating process where a thin layer of rhodium (typically 0.75 to 2.0 microns thick) is applied over another metal. This process enhances jewelry's appearance and durability by creating a bright, mirror-like white finish that resists scratches and tarnish.


The electroplating process involves immersing the jewelry in a rhodium solution and passing an electric current through it, causing rhodium molecules to bond to the surface. This creates a protective barrier that:


  • Enhances shine: Rhodium gives jewelry a mirror-like, highly polished look 
  • Provides a protective barrier: It helps shield the metal underneath from scratches and tarnish 
  • Improves white gold's appearance: While gold naturally has a slightly yellowish hue, rhodium plating creates the crisp white color people love


For optimal results, the base metal must be thoroughly clean before plating. The quality of preparation significantly affects how well the rhodium adheres and how long the plating will last.

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Rhodium Plating Cost

Rhodium plating prices vary depending on several factors, including:


  • Size of the jewelry piece 
  • Complexity of the design 
  • Thickness of the rhodium layer applied 
  • Current market price of rhodium 
  • Jeweler's location and expertise 


On average, rhodium plating costs range from $50 to $150 per piece. Larger or more intricate items may cost more, while simple rings or smaller pieces can be on the lower end of the spectrum. 

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Rhodium Plating Cleaning & Care

Proper care significantly extends the life of rhodium plating. It’s best to take rhodium-plated pieces to a jeweler for professional cleaning. 


For everyday maintenance, we recommend cleaning your piece carefully using a mild soap and warm water solution and a soft cloth or a microfiber towel. Avoid abrasive cleaners, harsh chemicals, or scrubbing brushes, as these can wear down the rhodium plating faster. Proper storage, such as keeping jewelry in a soft cloth pouch or separate compartment, also helps prevent scratches and preserves the plating for longer periods.


If your rhodium-plated jewelry loses its shine despite proper care, it may be time for replating. Regular inspection helps identify when maintenance is needed before the base metal becomes exposed.

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Rhodium Plating FAQ

How long does rhodium plating last?

he longevity of rhodium plating depends on factors such as how often the jewelry is worn, the thickness of the plating, and the type of metal underneath. On average, rhodium plating on frequently worn jewelry, like rings, lasts about 6 months to a year. Jewelry that is worn less often or handled more carefully can retain its plating for several years. Thicker plating also tends to last longer.


You’ll know it’s time to re-plate your jewelry when the brightness and whiteness of the rhodium finish start to fade. For white gold, this might mean you notice a yellow tint appear, while for silver, the piece may start to lose its high shine. Additionally, if the jewelry starts to scratch more easily or show signs of tarnish, the rhodium coating may have worn down and needs to be replaced.

What do you do if your rhodium plating is wearing off?

When rhodium plating begins to wear: 


  1. Visit a professional jeweler for assessment 
  2. Have the piece properly cleaned and polished 
  3. Consider replating if significant areas show the underlying metal 
  4. Discuss options for a thicker plating application if frequent wear is a concern 
  5. Review care practices to extend future plating longevity 

Don't attempt to touch up rhodium plating at home, as proper adhesion requires professional equipment and expertise.

Does rhodium plating tarnish?

No, rhodium itself does not tarnish and is highly resistant to oxidation and corrosion. These are some of its primary benefits.


However, when the rhodium layer wears thin, the underlying metal (particularly silver or certain white gold alloys) may begin to tarnish or discolor. What appears to be "tarnished rhodium" is actually the base metal showing through where the rhodium has worn away.

How long does rhodium plating take?

The actual electroplating process typically takes a few minutes or less. However, the complete service includes thorough cleaning and preparation, polishing if needed, plating setup, and rinsing and finishing. Most jewelers can complete rhodium plating within a few hours if no major repairs or special preparations are needed. Timeframes vary between jewelers depending on their workflow and queue of orders.

Can you remove rhodium plating?

Yes, rhodium plating can be removed, though it's a specialized process:


  • Professional jewelers can remove rhodium through polishing or chemical stripping 
  • The process must be carefully controlled to avoid damaging the underlying metal 
  • Removal is sometimes necessary when replating a two-tone piece or restoring vintage jewelry to its original appearance 

It's not recommended to attempt rhodium removal at home, as improper techniques can damage the jewelry.

Is rhodium plating good?

Rhodium plating is generally considered excellent for: 

  • Enhancing the appearance of white metals 
  • Providing scratch and tarnish resistance 
  • Creating a hypoallergenic surface 
  • Protecting softer metals from wear 

However, its suitability depends on your specific needs: 

  • Pros: Brilliant shine, durability, hypoallergenic properties, enhances appearance 
  • Cons: Requires periodic maintenance, adds ongoing cost, alters the original metal's appearance 

For most white gold and silver jewelry, the benefits outweigh the maintenance requirements. 

Is rhodium plating hypoallergenic?

Yes, rhodium plating is hypoallergenic. Rhodium doesn't contain nickel or other common allergens that trigger skin reactions. It creates a protective barrier between potentially allergenic metals (like nickel in some white gold alloys) and the skin. 


This makes rhodium-plated jewelry an excellent option for people with metal sensitivities. However, if the plating wears through, the underlying metal may still cause reactions if it contains allergens.

What color is rhodium plating?

Rhodium plating has a bright, silvery-white appearance with high reflectivity. It's considered the whitest of precious metals, creating a mirror-like finish that's brighter and more lustrous than silver, white gold, or platinum in their natural states. 


Black rhodium variation appears as a dark gray to charcoal color, not a true black. It has a subtle metallic sheen rather than a flat black appearance.

Does rhodium plating turn green?

No, rhodium itself doesn't turn green. Unlike copper or brass, rhodium is highly stable and doesn't react with skin oils or moisture to create discoloration. However, if the rhodium plating wears through, exposing copper alloys in the base metal, those exposed areas may potentially turn skin green through oxidation and reaction with body chemistry.

What does white gold look like without rhodium plating?

Without rhodium plating, white gold typically has a warm, slightly yellowish or grayish tone depending on its specific alloy composition. The exact appearance varies based on the specific metals used in the alloy. Most commercial white gold jewelry is rhodium plated to achieve the bright white color consumers expect.

Does rhodium plating have nickel in it?

No, rhodium plating does not contain nickel. Pure rhodium is used for the plating process and is naturally nickel-free. This is why rhodium plating is particularly valuable for people with nickel allergies.


However, it's important to note that the underlying metal (particularly in some white gold alloys) may contain nickel. If the rhodium plating wears through completely, exposing this base metal, allergic reactions could potentially occur. 

Is rhodium plating worth it?

Rhodium plating is a process that not only enhances the appearance of your jewelry but also provides lasting protection against wear and tear. While the plating does require regular maintenance and replating, its benefits, including a hypoallergenic surface and resistance to tarnishing, make it a worthwhile investment.

How do I know if my jewelry is rhodium plated?

To determine if your jewelry is rhodium plated, check for a bright, mirror-like finish, especially on white gold or silver pieces. Jewelry that maintains a brilliant, high-polish appearance without signs of tarnish is often rhodium plated.


Over time, as the rhodium wears off, the underlying metal’s natural color may start to show, such as a yellowish tint in white gold. Most commercially produced white gold jewelry is rhodium plated unless specifically labeled as "naturally white" or "unplated." 


If you’re unsure, a jeweler can perform a test to confirm whether rhodium has been applied.

How thick is rhodium plating?

Professional rhodium plating is typically applied at a thickness of 0.75 to 2.0 microns (about 0.00003 to 0.00008 inches). This extremely thin layer is sufficient to provide the desired appearance and protection while avoiding cracking that can occur with thicker applications.

Can all types of jewelry be rhodium plated?

While most precious metal jewelry can be rhodium plated, certain considerations determine suitability. White gold, sterling silver, platinum, and palladium are excellent candidates for rhodium plating, with white gold being the most common application. Yellow and rose gold can technically be plated but aren't generally recommended, as the color contrast when plating wears becomes quite noticeable.


Base metals like brass, copper, or pewter typically don't accept rhodium plating well without extensive preparation. Costume jewelry with unknown metal composition, antique pieces with delicate detailing, jewelry containing heat-sensitive gemstones, or pieces with poor structural integrity should generally not be rhodium plated. A professional jeweler should always assess each piece individually to determine if rhodium plating is appropriate based on the metal type, condition, and intended use of the jewelry.

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