What Is Rhodium Plating?

Everything You Need to Know About Rhodium-Plated Jewelry

What is Rhodium Plating?

IN THIS GUIDE

Start with the Basics

While wedding pictures can freeze beautiful moments in time, the rhodium on certain rings may wear away, revealing the faint yellow color underneath. At Shane Co., we can still maintain jewelry without rhodium plating with a free Care & Cleaning every six months, but if your setting is white gold, chances are your ring may require rhodium replating to retain its original luster.


Rhodium doesn’t replace ring cleaning, but it does restore the shine of your piece so you can wear it proudly, regardless of how many years you’ve owned it! As the name suggests, rhodium replating is when rings (or other pieces) are covered in a thin layer of rhodium to make them lustrous and shiny. Find out how rhodium plating can bring your dull pieces back to life and get all of your questions answered below. 

What Is Rhodium Plating?

Rhodium plating is an element from the platinum metal family used to coat rings and leaves a shiny, bright silver finish. Rhodium can also be used to create bold, dramatic statements like in our Maverick Diamond and Black Rhodium Wedding Set with Pavé Setting. When we receive a ring for rhodium replating, we must first clean the ring to create a dirt-free base for the rhodium to attach to. Next, we apply a fine layer of rhodium, which is about 0.5 to 2.5 microns (one micron is approximately one-millionth of a meter). Human hair averages around 70 microns in thickness, which means the layer of rhodium applied is extremely thin. Rhodium plating is not a one-and-done solution. Instead, the rhodium will wear off over time and require upkeep. Customers can come right into the store or mail in their jewelry for the rhodium plating to enhance shine. 


The cost of rhodium replating can add up quickly. On average, some jewelers may charge around $90.00 for a rhodium finish. At Shane Co., we want you to feel confident wearing your jewelry, which is why we offer free rhodium replating under our Free Lifetime Warranty. We also take it one step further with superior pieces that are crafted in a way that doesn’t require rhodium replating, saving you trips back to the store. However, if your pieces are coated in rhodium, it’s worth keeping up with rhodium plating to maintain the silvery finish of your jewelry.

Pros of Rhodium Plating

White gold is essentially yellow gold mixed with alloy metals. Think of how the color changes when you add creamer to a cup of coffee; just as more creamer dilutes the coffee’s dark color, so too do more alloy metals change a ring’s appearance, leading it further away from yellow and closer to white. The more the wearer wears it, the more it starts to show a slightly yellow color underneath the rhodium. Rhodium plating will keep the ring looking bright when it starts to turn yellow. It’s also hypoallergenic, which makes it a top choice for those with any sensitive skin issues. Plus, whenever we re-rhodium settings, we also re-polish the ring, which can mask imperfections and smooth surfaces.

Cons of Rhodium Plating

If you prefer low maintenance, rhodium-plated jewelry might not be the best fit for you, as it does wear off and requires occasional upkeep. With other jewelers, this can get expensive if it’s not covered; however, Shane Co. offers this service for free. If you never take your rings off, the rhodium can fade faster, but it’s easy enough to keep up with your rhodium plating with your free Care & Cleaning.

Are Precious Gemstones Affected by the Rhodium-Plating Process?

Certain precious gemstones like diamonds, rubies, and sapphires are hard enough to withstand rhodium-plating and do not need to be removed during the rhodium-plating process. Jewelers can take extra time to ensure these gemstones do not get damaged. The gemstones stay attached during the dipping process for a smooth, glossy finish.  

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What Types of Jewelry Don’t Require Rhodium Plating?

Softer stones can be damaged by the rhodium during the plating process, which is why it’s important to understand which stones are not compatible with rhodium to protect your jewelry — and even your family’s legacy.

Stones and Alloys

While diamonds can withstand rhodium replating, some softer stones can be harmed during the process. Avoid dipping the stones and alloys below. 

Pearl jewelry

Opal jewelry

Rose gold jewelry

Best Types of Jewelry to Pair with Rhodium Plating

The purpose of rhodium plating is to restore a ring’s shine and color. To optimize luster, certain types of jewelry work better with rhodium plating than others. 

White Gold

White gold jewelry is plated with rhodium so when you see the first hints of yellow visible on your ring after a span of wear, it’s actually the result of the rhodium fading away. We recommend bringing your jewelry in every six months for regular maintenance to preserve the white finish and keep your rings looking as beautiful as the first day you laid your eyes on them.

Yellow Gold

While we strongly recommend against this, rhodium plating can transform a yellow gold ring into a bright white one, but it’s not without consequences. This isn’t a permanent fix, as the rhodium can chip off like paint and fade over time. Ultimately, we recommend shopping for a white gold or platinum setting if you desire a bright white finish. It’s best to try and envision the new white finish before getting your rings plated with rhodium, but we still strongly advise you to proceed with caution.

Sterling Silver

While sterling silver jewelry does contain silver, it also has copper, which can make it prone to fading over time. Likewise, sweat, exposure to chemicals, and other daily wear and tear can lead to dull-looking silver. The solution? Rhodium dipping can help maintain sterling silver’s shine and bring back its brilliance.

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Increasing the Longevity of Rhodium Jewelry

After your white gold wedding band undergoes rhodium replating, there are simple steps you can take to increase its longevity and leave it looking radiant for longer. Help extend the lifespan of your rhodium-plated jewelry with some of our tips below.


  • Don’t enter pools with chlorine.
  • Avoid rubbing your rings or scrubbing them during handwashing.
  • Prevent contact with the chemicals found in perfumes, lotions, and hairsprays.
  • Ensure your rings are fitted correctly so they don’t cause friction against your finger.
  • Wear gloves when cleaning or handling chemicals. 


Purchasing jewelry for a special occasion is always a meaningful moment. Don’t limit your selection by avoiding rhodium-plated rings. Can’t live without a white gold setting? Shane Co. offers free rhodium replating under our Free Lifetime Warranty so you don’t need to worry about expenses adding up. Shop Shane Co.’s engagement rings to find the right fit for you and learn other ways to care for your precious and semi-precious metals.

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