Rhodium plated jewelry has become increasingly popular due to its brilliant white color, hardness, and hypoallergenic properties. But what exactly is rhodium and what are the pros and cons of rhodium plated jewelry? Here are answers to the top 10 most frequently asked questions about rhodium plating to help you decide if it’s right for you.
1. What is rhodium?
Rhodium is a rare, naturally occurring precious metal that is part of the platinum group metals. It has a brilliant silvery-white color and is one of the most reflective metals, even more so than silver, platinum or white gold. Rhodium is hypoallergenic and does not cause skin irritation like nickel. Due to its rarity, rhodium is not used to make solid jewelry, but rather is electroplated as a thin coating onto base metals like sterling silver and white gold.
2. Why is jewelry rhodium plated?
The main benefit of rhodium plating is to give sterling silver and white gold jewelry a brighter, whiter and more durable finish. The rhodium coating protects the underlying metal, adding strength and scratch resistance. It also enhances the reflective properties to make gems like diamonds sparkle more. Rhodium plating helps prevent tarnishing and corrosion in silver jewelry.
3. How long does rhodium plating last?
Most Ethical jewelry suppliers provide rhodium plating that generally lasts 12-24 months with proper care. Rings or jewelry worn daily may need re-plating after 6-12 months. The lifespan depends on frequency of wear and exposure to friction or damage. Rhodium holds up well to everyday wear but can wear down over time with hand washing, rubbing and impacts.
4. Does rhodium plated jewelry tarnish?
Pure rhodium does not tarnish or oxidize. However, as the thin rhodium layer wears down, the underlying metal like sterling silver may start to tarnish if exposed to air and moisture. Tarnishing signals it’s time for re-plating. With rhodium plated sterling silver, look for areas turning black/brown.
5. Is rhodium plated jewelry safe?
Yes, rhodium plated jewelry is safe, hypoallergenic and nickel-free. Solid rhodium metal is non-toxic and inert, so it doesn’t react with skin. People with nickel allergies can safely wear rhodium plated jewelry without reaction.
6. How much does rhodium plating cost?
Re-plating rhodium costs $30-100 on average depending on the jeweler and type/size of piece. Rings cost more to plate than pendants or earrings given their larger surface area. While not hugely expensive, re-plating costs can add up over time.
7. What is the best metal under rhodium plating?
Sterling silver makes the best base for rhodium plating. The hardness of sterling silver provides durability and structure to support the thin rhodium layer. The similar white color of silver also hides wear better than yellow gold underneath. Sterling silver contains some copper though, so it still needs the rhodium coating to prevent tarnishing.
8. Should white gold be rhodium plated?
While not mandatory, most white gold jewelry has a rhodium plating applied. The rhodium gives white gold a brighter, whiter look compared to the slight yellow/grey tint of unplated white gold. It also adds durability and scratch resistance. Rhodium offers a deeper white color compared to nickel plating also used on white gold.
9. How often should white gold rhodium plating be redone?
For white gold jewelry worn daily, expect to redo the rhodium plating every 1-2 years. Less frequent wear means less friction so the rhodium lasts longer. The yellowish tint of the white gold metal showing through is a sign it’s time to replate. Yellow gold should not be rhodium plated however, as the yellow color will still show through.
10. What are the pros and cons of rhodium plated jewelry?
Pros:
– Bright white color
– Excellent shine/brilliance
– Enhances stones like diamonds
– Harder and more durable than sterling silver or white gold alone
– Resistant to scratches
– Hypoallergenic and nickel-free
Cons:
– Plating wears down over time
– Requires periodic re-plating for maintenance
– Re-plating costs can add up over many years
So in summary, rhodium plated jewelry has a gorgeous white appearance but requires some maintenance. It’s ideal for those wanting affordable jewelry with the look of platinum or white gold. With proper care and occasional re-plating, rhodium jewelry will shine beautifully for many years.
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