Not everyone knows this process...What is rhodium plating of a gold or silver jewel? What is it for and why is it done?
Rhodium plating is a process that is carried out on the surface of the jewel. The result is not only a greater brilliance of the gold or silver surfaces, but also greater protection from scratches and chipping.
This chemical process occurs when the precious metal is immersed in an aqueous solution containing rhodium salt and an electric current is applied: the rhodium ions are deposited on the surface of the jewel forming a uniform protective layer.
Rhodium is a very rare and difficult to find material, it has a high hardness and excellent resistance to corrosion. The chemical properties of the thin layers of Rhodium that cover precious metals make it a fundamental element in the process of making a jewel. Thanks to its very bright appearance, rhodium plating is also used to improve the brilliance of silver jewels and to eliminate the phenomenon of surface oxidation over time that makes them opaque. The silver jewel, if rhodium-plated, will be bright white, with an excellent reflective quality.
To clean a rhodium-plated silver jewel, it is not recommended to use abrasive liquids or aggressive substances that could damage the protective layer. Instead, use a soft-bristled brush or a soft cloth (depending on the fineness of the jewel) and simple water.
KINTOUT 925 silver jewels are all subjected, at the end of their handcrafted production, to a Rhodium galvanic bath. The rhodium plating we carry out does not contain Nickel, all our jewelry products are therefore strictly nickel-free.