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Palo Alto, CA--Rhodium plating, a popular jewelry finishing technique, is prized for its durability, hypoallergenic quality, and reflective shine. A blog post by Shreve & Co. notes that rhodium—an expensive metal in the platinum family—offers protection and tarnish resistance, making it ideal for frequently worn pieces, such as wedding bands and engagement rings.

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The Shreve & Co. blog describes the plating process, which begins with thoroughly cleaning the jewelry using steam or electro-cleaning to ensure proper adhesion. The piece is then immersed in a solution containing sulfuric acid and rhodium sulfate, where an electrical current is applied to help the rhodium bond with the base metal. Afterward, the jewelry is rinsed and left to dry.

The article details rhodium’s benefits, which include providing an allergy barrier for those sensitive to nickel, enhancing the shine, and reinforcing the durability of the jewelry. However, as a surface treatment, rhodium plating can wear over time. To prolong its lifespan, wearers are advised to avoid exposing plated pieces to harsh chemicals, water, or cosmetics and to plan for periodic re-plating every few years.

Shreve & Co. notes that jewelers offer re-plating services to help maintain plated jewelry. Checking the jeweler’s re-plating policies can ensure that rhodium-plated pieces retain their appeal and durability over time.

Learn more in the blog post here.