Metals & Gold
Rhodium Plating: Why White Gold Needs It
Most white gold jewelry is plated with rhodium, a platinum-group metal, to achieve a bright white finish and some added scratch resistance.
Why white gold isn't naturally white
Pure gold is yellow; white gold is created by alloying gold with white metals like palladium or nickel, which produces a pale, often slightly grey or yellowish tone rather than a bright white.
The role of rhodium
A thin rhodium layer is electroplated over the white gold to give it a brilliant white, reflective finish and added surface hardness. This plating is cosmetic and gradually wears with daily contact and friction.
Maintenance expectations
Rhodium plating typically needs reapplication every one to several years depending on wear, and re-plating is a routine, affordable jewelry service rather than a sign of a defective piece.
Buyer checklist
- ✓ Expect periodic re-plating as normal maintenance for white gold
- ✓ Ask your jeweler how often re-plating is recommended for your wear pattern
- ✓ Consider platinum or palladium if you prefer to avoid plating upkeep
Verification tools & references
Every Riakoob piece arrives certified, insured and covered by our 12-month value promise.
Browse the collection