Does rhodium plating change color? Does rhodium plating wear out? There are several types of rhodium-plated jewelry on the market. However, not many people understand what it is or how long it can last. This article aims to provide you with all the information you need about rhodium plating, including whether rhodium plating is worn out.
In general, rhodium plating can improve the durability and luster of other metals that make jewelry. It provides a shiny smooth finish for diamond rings, gold bracelets, and even silver necklaces.
While rhodium plating is a common practice in the jewelry world, it does require adequate maintenance to remain smooth and glossy. However, does rhodium plating wear out?
Does Rhodium Plating Wear Out?
First of all, you need to understand the term “rhodium plating”. Rhodium itself is an element belonging to the platinum group.
It is harder than gold and therefore more durable and stronger than gold. This element is also quite rare, making it about 10-25 times more expensive than gold.
Rhodium has a silvery hue, does not corrode or tarnishe, and is highly reflective. Similarly, it is also brittle and does not bend easily, which means that it is likely to break if used to make jewelry alone.
Rhodium plating, also known as rhodium plating or rhodium plating, is the process by which jewelry manufacturers add a protective layer on other metal jewelry.
As a result, the jewelry becomes more scratch and corrosion resistant. Most rhodium-plated jewelry is 0.75-1.0 microns thick, which is sufficient to protect precious metal jewelry that is often subject to rough wear.
If the thickness of the rhodium plating layer is too large, it will increase the chance of the part breaking due to its brittleness. If it is too thin, it may discolor the part, making it prone to tarnishing and corrosion. So yes, after some time, depending on certain conditions, rhodium plating does wear out.
How Long Does Rhodium Plating Last?
Rhodium plating is a process that occurs on the surface of jewelry. As a result, it tends to disappear after a while, revealing the yellow or white underneath.
Depending on how often you wear rhodium-plated jewelry, the protective layer wears out and needs to be replated at least every 12-18 months.
Typically, rhodium plating can last for about three to twelve months. Factors such as the wearer’s body chemistry, the color of the base metal, the wear of the parts, and the thickness of the plating determine the service life of the coating.
If the color of the base metal is yellow, you may need to re-plate your workpiece before the end of the twelve months.
What Happens When the Rhodium Plating Wears Out?
We have found that rhodium plating wears out under the influence of daily wear and tear and other factors.
When it wears out, the jewelry loses its silver color and reveals the base metal underneath.
For example, most platinum-plated jewelry will look whiter after the rhodium plating is worn.
What’s more, the piece may tarnish and corrode faster, causing harmful damage to its appearance. Luckily, you can re-gild for a small fee at your local jeweler.
Tips for Extending the Life of Rhodium-Plated Jewelry
Although rhodium plating wears out quickly with regular use, there are a few simple tricks you can employ to ensure it lasts longer. They include:
Avoid exposing your ring to harsh chemicals
It is essential to clean your jewelry to ensure that they maintain their shiny and shiny appearance over time.
However, if you use a strong cleaning product that contains strong chemicals, it may cause rhodium-plated jewelry to wear out. Simply use warm water and soap to clean your parts.
Likewise, if you are doing daily household chores, we recommend that you take off your ring or wear protective gloves. The same goes for swimming. Do not wear rhodium-plated jewelry to swim in chlorinated pools.
Avoid rubbing off the rhodium plating on the ring Rhodium plating only on the surface of the jewelry. Therefore, when you rub your hands while washing your hands, it may come off. This should be avoided as much as possible to extend the rhodium plating time. If your profession requires you to rub your hands frequently, wear a rhodium-plated ring around your neck or remove it before leaving work.
Metal friction
If your jewelry rotates and loosens, its rhodium plating may wear from the inside. This process is usually accelerated when cosmetics come into contact with rhodium plating. Therefore, only when you remove the jewelry, you may notice wear of the plating. Remove cosmetic residue from the ring. If your ring rotates frequently, you may need to recheck your finger size and adjust your ring appropriately.
Is Rhodium Plating Safe for Jewelry?
Yes. Rhodium plating is very safe for jewelry. Rhodium plating is hypoallergenic, which means it does not cause any allergic reactions to sensitive skin.
The rhodium plating process does not use any metal allergens such as lead and nickel.
What’s more, rhodium itself does not contain these allergens, so rhodium-plated jewelry is safe for all skin types. Many jewelers recommend rhodium-plated jewelry that can cause allergic reactions as a solution to eliminate the problem.
However, once the rhodium plating wears off, the base metal is exposed, which can cause adverse reactions to your skin. Some people confuse this contact with rhodium plating allergy, which is wrong.
Conclusion
Rhodium plating excels in improving the durability and appearance of jewelry.
It has a valuable shine that does not tarnish or corrode quickly. However, maintenance costs are quite high as you have to re-plating at least once every twelve months.
Rhodium-plated also has a deeper luster than sterling silver, so it is easy to notice. Check with your jeweler to find out the rhodium plating process and whether it is right for your jewelry.
