Keeping your jewellery in good condition is important, which is why James Moore & Co. offers rhodium plating! A popular service that brings your accessories to life is rhodium plating, which involves applying a thin layer of rhodium to jewellery. We are aware that many people will be asking themselves ‘What is Rhodium plating?’ so we have curated this guide to provide you with everything you need to know about rhodium plating. From its price to how it works, if you want to discover more, you’ve come to the right place!
What is Rhodium?
Rhodium is a silvery-white and corrosion-resistant metal part of the platinum group of elements. Reflecting up to 80% of light, rhodium gives off one of the best sheens available. Hence it is one of the most popular metals for jewellery. Rhodium is also considered one of the rarest and most valuable metals in the world; far more so than gold or platinum. This rarity, however, means it has a higher price per ounce. While rhodium is too expensive and brittle to make jewellery out of, it makes a superb plating material. Significantly enhancing the shine and durability of jewellery, it brings jewellery back to life!
What is Rhodium Plating?
Rhodium plating is a process used in jewellery to coat pieces with a thin layer of rhodium. This plating improves the durability and resistance to tarnishing, especially in white gold, sterling silver and platinum jewellery. In addition to this, the process gives jewellery a brighter, shinier appearance. So, it’s especially popular for engagement rings and wedding bands that need an extra bit of TLC.
Typically, jewellery is coated in a white rhodium finish, but black rhodium plating is also an option. Black rhodium offers the same durability and tarnish resistance as white rhodium, however, it does not have the same bright and shiny appearance. Rather, it has an edgy, mysterious look perfect for fashion and statement jewellery.
Benefits of Rhodium Plating
Rhodium plating offers several benefits for jewellery owners. Rhodium is an extremely hard, durable metal that protects jewellery from scratches, corrosion, and wear. As well as this, rhodium is naturally resistant to tarnishing, which helps jewellery maintain its appearance over time. Rhodium is a hypoallergenic metal, so it doesn’t cause irritation or allergic reactions. If you have sensitive skin, rest assured that rhodium-plated jewellery is safe for you! All of these benefits are excellent and good reasons as to why you should get your jewellery rhodium plated. However, the key benefit of this process is its longevity. For necklaces and earrings, rhodium plating may last forever. But for essentials that are worn daily and get a lot of wear and tear, rhodium plating may start coming off after a year.
How Does Rhodium Plating Work?
The first step of this process is to polish the piece of jewellery to a brilliantly high finish. If the piece is not clean, it will not plate! After this, the jewellery is cleaned in an ultrasonic cleaner – which typically takes around 5 to 30 minutes. The jewellery is then connected to an electric current and placed in a plating solution containing rhodium; rhodium coats the jewellery through electroplating. The jewellery is then rinsed with water and dried, and after a thorough inspection, the piece is ready to be taken home! However, if the plating on your jewellery does not meet the industry standards, then the process will have to be repeated.
How Much Does Rhodium Plating Cost?
At James Moore & Co., rhodium plating service starts at £45. This depends on the size and quality of the jewellery, so make sure to take that into account. This process takes around an hour, so it is offered subject to appointment. If you would like to book an appointment, visit the section on the James Moore & Co. website or call 01926 298 499.
How Long Does Rhodium Plated Jewellery Last?
Typically, rhodium plating lasts a year or two depending on wear. However, the exact duration depends on several factors. These include how often you wear it, the type of jewellery, the quality of the plating and its exposure to water and chemicals. You can tell if your jewellery needs re-plating when you can see the base metal through the rhodium. When the plating wears away, your jewellery may appear yellow or tarnished.
Now that we’ve told you everything you need to know about rhodium plating, do you feel more confident about this process? Will you book an appointment with James Moore & Co. to bring your jewellery back to life? Let us know in the comments!
