Rhodium Plating
A thin layer of rhodium applied to white gold to create a bright, reflective white surface.
Definition
Rhodium plating is the process of electroplating a thin layer of rhodium (a platinum-group metal) onto the surface of white gold jewelry. This coating creates a brilliant, mirror-like white finish that is harder and more reflective than the underlying white gold alloy. Rhodium plating typically wears off over 12–24 months depending on wear habits, revealing the slightly yellowish tone of the base white gold beneath.
Why It Matters for Ring Design
Rhodium plating maintenance is a recurring service opportunity for jewelers. Offering complimentary first-year re-plating builds customer loyalty, while subsequent re-plating visits create opportunities to sell additional jewelry, cleaning services, and inspection packages.
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