Rhodium Plated Sterling Silver
Rhodium is a rare and precious metal considered to be approximately 10-25 times more expensive than gold. It belongs to the platinum family.
The improved appearance of rhodium plating was initially noticed because of its extra beauty to the naked eye, but as the points below will show, it not only enhances the beauty of silver, it helps ensure the longest-lasting, most durable finish for your jewelry. The result: stunning jewellery that stays stunning much longer than un-plated jewellery.
Rhodium is considered best in class of all the platinum metals family for resistance to corrosion and tarnish, and is the most tarnish resistant member of the platinum metals group. Rhodium will also remain bright and shiny under most environmental conditions. Not surprisingly, of all the metals in this group, rhodium is by far the most expensive to utilize. Rhodium is a rare and precious metal considered to be approximately 10-25 times more expensive than gold.
As a protective coating, rhodium finishes virtually eliminate any chance of surface discoloring even when exposed to extreme environmental conditions under normal temperatures. The surface hardness of plated rhodium is also the highest of the precious metals, and is thus highly resistant to incidental scratching and abrasion. Rhodium plated finishes are best in class for wearability among the precious metals. So jewellers may choose to rhodium plate some jewellery items to make them more durable.
Additionally, rhodium is hypoallergenic. Thus, by rhodium plating, a possible allergen is removed from contacting your skin.
Rhodium plating can dramatically increase the long term durability, brightness and luster of the finish. Because it is a plating, it will wear off over time. How soon depends on how much wear and tear the jewelry item takes. When the rhodium plating begins to disappear from a silver or platinum jewelry item, it will be much less noticeable because the underlying metal will look gray, not yellowish.
There are a few precautions you can take to increase the lifespan of the rhodium plating, such as taking your jewelry off before taking showers, washing your hands & face, or going for a swim. It’s also best to avoid using any rough cleaning solutions or chemicals while cleaning the jewelry so that the rhodium does not wear off too quickly.
Some cleaning tips for rhodium-plated sterling silver jewels include:
- Mix washing-up liquid and some warm water.
- Soak the jewelry in the solution for about ten minutes and then gently rub it with your fingers to remove the dirt or a very soft tooth brush.
- Rinse off the jewelry to remove the soapy water using clean distilled water. It is best to rinse twice to remove any detergent residue completely.
- By using a soft towel, pat the jewelry gently until it is dry. Leave it overnight to dry completely. And store it in an airtight jewelry container.
Conclusion
While rhodium plating works great to offset cubic zirconium and diamonds, it also does an excellent job in creating the durability and strength of sterling silver.
It offers a brilliant white shine on its products free from tarnish and corrosion. By understanding how long rhodium-plated sterling silver lasts, you can equip yourself better in cleaning and preventing it from discoloring and wearing out.