What Is Rhodium Plating?

Rhodium plating is a thin layer of rhodium, a rare and valuable precious metal in the platinum family, that is applied to the surface of jewelry.

Rhodium has a bright, reflective white appearance and is commonly used to give sterling silver and white gold jewelry a bright, polished finish. It can also provide a protective surface that helps reduce tarnishing and scratching of the underlying metal.

Rhodium plating is a surface coating, not solid rhodium. Over time, the plating can naturally wear away, particularly on areas that experience frequent contact or friction, such as rings, bracelets, and the backs or edges of jewelry.

How long rhodium plating lasts depends on the type of jewelry, how frequently it is worn, and exposure to water, chemicals, lotions, perfumes, and other substances.

When the rhodium coating wears away, the underlying metal becomes visible. This is normal wear and does not mean the jewelry is defective. A jeweler can professionally clean and re-plate the item if desired.

To help extend the life of rhodium plating, remove jewelry before showering, swimming, exercising, or using household chemicals, and avoid applying perfumes, lotions, or other personal-care products directly to the jewelry.