Rhodium Plating
A thin layer of rhodium applied to white gold to create a bright, reflective white surface.
Definition
Rhodium is a rare platinum-group metal that is harder and whiter than platinum. In fine jewelry, rhodium is electroplated onto white gold surfaces (and occasionally yellow gold for a silver look) to create a highly reflective, bright white finish that masks the slight yellowish or grayish tint of the underlying white gold alloy. The rhodium layer is typically 0.10–1.0 microns thick.
Why It Matters for Ring Design
Rhodium plating will wear away over time, especially on ring shanks that experience friction. Light wear shows the underlying white gold color; significant wear reveals the more yellowish alloy. Re-plating costs $25–$100 and should be discussed as a maintenance expectation when selling white gold jewelry. Platinum requires no rhodium plating.
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