Rhodium Plating Explained: What It Is and When to Re-Plate
Rhodium is the reason white gold and sterling silver jewellery gleams with that bright, mirror-white finish. Here is what it is, how it wears, and when to renew it.
What rhodium is
Rhodium is a rare precious metal from the platinum family, and one of the most valuable metals on earth. In jewellery it is applied as a thin, brilliant plating over silver or white gold. It does three jobs at once: delivers the whitest finish available in jewellery, shields the metal beneath from tarnish and oxidation, and adds a harder, more scratch-resistant surface.
Why jewellers use it
Sterling silver naturally tarnishes with air exposure, and white gold alloys carry a faint warm tint. Rhodium solves both, which is why our signature 925 sterling silver pieces are rhodium plated as standard. The result is silver that stays brighter for far longer with a genuinely white, luxurious finish.
How long plating lasts
Rhodium does not chip or peel; it wears gradually through friction. How long it lasts depends entirely on wear: rings and bracelets that meet surfaces all day thin faster, while earrings and pendants can keep their plating for many years. For a daily-worn ring, expect the finish to soften over a couple of years or more; you may notice a slightly warmer tone appearing where the ring rubs most.
Caring for rhodium-plated pieces
Clean only with mild soap, warm water and a soft brush, as in our home cleaning guide. Never use silver polish, dips or abrasive cloths on plated pieces: they are designed to strip surface metal, which is exactly what the plating is. Keep pieces away from chlorine and hand sanitiser, and store them dry and sealed.
Re-plating: routine, not repair
When plating eventually thins, re-plating restores the piece to day-one brightness. It is normal maintenance for fine jewellery worldwide, like servicing a watch. If your Aura piece is looking less bright than it should, message us via chat and we will advise the best path. The full care routine lives in our Ring Care Guide.