Jewellery pieces catch our eye with their gleam, their design, and also with what they make us feel when we are wearing them. In jewellery-making,
there are several techniques to achieve those very finishes that find their place in our heart. Today, we take a closer look at
rhodium plating, a process that
makes each piece more beautiful. Discover
what rhodium plating is, when it is used and what it adds to a jewellery piece with Relojería Alemana.
What is rhodium plating?
Rhodium is a silvery white metal, very shiny, and a noble metal from the platinum group. Some jewellery pieces glimmer more because of their rhodium plating, a very thin superficial coating of this metal,
which greatly benefits the piece, improving its quality. It is worth mentioning that white gold and silver are not pure metals, but alloys, which means they lose their lustre or they tarnish after some time.
Rhodium plating delays this process and helps the pieces retain their brilliance.
How is rhodium plating done in jewellery?
To achieve rhodium plating on a piece of jewellery it is necessary to submerge the piece in a chemical solution that contains small rhodium particles. Through an electrolytic immersion process,
or an electrical current, those diluted rhodium particles adhere themselves to the surface of the piece we want to plate. This way, the piece is coated by a light, silvery mantle.
What is the purpose of rhodium plating and what does it add to the piece?
Rhodium plating, as well as increasing the beauty of a jewellery piece, is also useful for the following reasons:
- Adding some extra metallised shine.
- Protecting the piece from regular use and the passing of time.
- Guarding the jewellery piece against oxidation and tarnishing.
When should jewellery pieces be plated with rhodium?
Rhodium is not a neutral element, which is why it cannot be used as a base metal in jewellery. Rhodium plating is especially suited to pieces in white gold and silver, since they have similar hues.
However, this process can also be used for designs created in other materials. Rhodium plating is advisable for the following:
- Hypoallergenic jewellery pieces. Rhodium has anti-allergic properties, which is why it is advisable for people who have allergic reactions to contact with gold or silver.
- High-quality finishes. Achieving excellent jewellery pieces with an exceptional and long-lasting gleam is possible thanks to rhodium plating.
DoDo: responsible, long-lasting and rhodium-plated jewellery pieces
One of the jewellery brands that opts for the high quality of
rhodium-plated pieces is
DoDo. An open, inclusive and eco-responsible spirit guides this Italian make.
With DoDo, you can choose, combine and personalise
fine jewellery charms and designs. Enjoy these works of art plated with rhodium by DoDo and their spectacular shine.
At Relojería Alemana we love to always offer you a selection of jewellery pieces of maximum quality. We favour attractive designs, and the excellence of the materials.
Visit our
shops in Mallorca and let the unparalleled glimmer of our rhodium-plated jewellery catch your eye. You will be able to admire rhodium-plated rings,
earrings and pendants by DoDo and other jewellery maisons. We are waiting for you!
