Do you ever wonder what adds that extra glow to an already stunning jewelry piece? Sometimes the secret to extra radiance is rhodium plating! Throughout this post, we’ll discuss how you can literally make the whole place shimmer. Let’s uncover the benefits of rhodium plating, how it enhances jewelry, and why it’s a popular choice for keeping your most prized pieces brilliantly shiny!
What Is Rhodium Plating?
Rhodium is the most precious noble metal that’s used to create jewelry. It’s also the whitest in color - even whiter than silver!
The rhodium plating process involves applying a thin layer of rhodium noble metal through electroplating to jewelry– typically silver or white gold jewelry– in order to enhance the appearance of the metal which leads to more vibrance and durability. This rhodium finish not only improves the look but also adds an extra layer of protection to the jewelry, making it more resistant to tarnishing and scratches. Many of Dana's white gold picks, such as our white gold hoop earrings and white gold tennis necklace, benefit from this process to maintain their brilliance.
Benefits of Rhodium Plating on Jewelry
One of the key benefits of rhodium plating is its exceptional tarnish resistance. Rhodium plating provides additional protection against scratches and tarnishing which helps maintain the jewel’s appearance. Rhodium is nickel-free which guarantees that it will not tarnish. Just a thin layer of very strong rhodium plating acts as a barrier to the metal underneath, which offers added protection as rhodium doesn’t scratch, dent or corrode. Rhodium plating is pretty much a win-win as you’re strengthening your beloved jewels, adding shine and further illuminating the stones!
How Long Does Rhodium Plating Last?
This depends on a few different factors but when well cared for, rhodium plating can last between 6 months and 2 years before it needs to be reapplied. Although the rhodium plating doesn’t break off, natural friction can wear it down which is why it’s a good idea to have it reapplied every so often (especially if you’re someone who wears your rhodium plated jewelry daily). Also, consider the type of jewelry that has the rhodium plating – rings are more prone to heavy wear vs. things like earrings and necklaces.
How to Extend the Life of Rhodium Plating
- Steer clear of harsh chemicals like bleach, chlorine, and acetone. These substances can weaken the metal. Similarly, avoid abrasive cleaners such as powdered cleaners and toothpaste, as they can erode the metal and alter the color.
- Use only soft brushes as stiff-bristled or abrasive cleaning tools can scratch the metal.
- Be mindful of thick lotions and creams. These can leave a residue on your metal, making it appear dirty and potentially leading to discoloration.
Gentle Cleaning Remedies for Rhodium Plated Jewelry
- Good old soap and water! This method is a classic and efficient way to clean a rhodium plated piece. Our favorite jewelry cleaning cocktail is: warm water, gentle dish soap and a soft toothbrush. A brush is extra important as it’s a safe way to get in between small cracks where gross things settle.
- A jewelry cleaner - like the DRD Jewelry Cleaner - also works, but there needs to be something to move the dirt away, that’s why a soft toothbrush is great. Combine distilled water with the contents of one DRD cleanser pod in the eco-friendly jar, immerse your jewels in the solution, let rest for five minutes, then scrub with the gentle brush (that’s included) to remove any gunk, rinse, and blot dry with a soft cloth! The solution is good for several uses; however, we recommend changing out the water once it becomes murky. The system comes with two cleanser pods. [Please note this cleanser is not safe to use on pearls, soft stones or other gemstones].
- We also offer our Jewelry Dish and Cleaner Set that comes with our cleaning solution! Everyone needs a trinket tray to store their favorite everyday jewels! Using these gentle methods will help clean rhodium plated jewelry effectively without causing any damage.
Reminders:
- The gym is good for the mind/body and tough on jewels. Weight lifting, tightly gripping the handles of an elliptical, pressing your hands into the floor as you finally achieve that perfect handstand - these are all situations that can warp your jewels. Our Travel Jewelry Zip Case is great to have on hand when you need to take your precious jewelry off!
While rhodium plating is a great option if you’re looking to give your jewels a little extra strength and sparkle, it’s important to remember that well crafted jewelry is built to last for a very long time. When purchasing jewelry, remember to look for the following things:
- GIA Certified Diamonds (you want your diamonds to adhere to the gold standard of GIA grading which guarantees that your stone is both authentic and high quality).
- Ethically sourced Materials (you want conflict-free diamonds from carefully chosen suppliers).
- Kimberly Process Compliant (you want to know where your diamonds are coming from).
- Buy from a trusted jeweler who you like and feel good about… like DRD!
