Learn about Rhodium Plating
- A thin plating applied to, usually, white gold.
- Give your engagement ring a steely white platinum-like look
- A less expensive alternative to the steely whiteness of platinum.
- Will wear off over time to reveal the more yellowy coloured white gold underneath.
General Information on Rhodium Plated Engagement Rings
Rhodium plating is a very thin plating that is applied to engagement rings to give a platinum-like steely whiteness. The process is generally applied to white gold to give it a super-white glossy finish. So, obviously, when a rhodium plated finish is applied to 9ct, 18ct or even silver, the engagement ring will look the same because what you are seeing is the rhodium.
Many high street jewellers always rhodium plate their white gold engagement rings - at Harriet Kelsall Jewellery Design we offer the choice because each unique engagement ring that we design and handmade has different requirements. Some designs benefit from the more mellow whiteness of natural white gold and some don't - the choice is really yours.
The cost of applying rhodium plating is £25 + VAT (UK and EU only), so not an expensive process, however if you are considering rhodium plating for financial reasons, you do need to budget this amount as a regular cost throughout the life of the engagement ring.
We find that the rate at which rhodium plating wears varies hugely from person to person. Some people's rings are showing that natural white gold through in a matter of months (especially on the back) but with some it will last for years. The only reason the rhodium plating can wear is contact with other objects and in particular harder objects and we also find that its almost impossible to predict whether a customer's lifestyle will cause faster or slower wear. Simple everyday things like steering wheels or dog leads can really damage the finish of an engagement ring because they are harder than the more soft precious metals. The good news is that the plating is easy to re-apply and we (or any reputable jeweller) can do that for you. See care for your engagement ring for more information.
Rhodium plating is a popular choice for your engagement ring although you do have to consider that it will wear over time, but it will add a very bright white appearance especially to contrast in a mixed metal engagement ring to bring out the white against the yellow or rose gold.
Please contact us if you have any questions or would like to arrange a design consultation.