Rhodium plated jewelry

Rhodium is a member of the platinum family. Rhodium electroplating is used on jewelry to provide a surface that will resist scratches and tarnish, and give a white, reflective appearance. Rhodium electroplating is used to make jewelry shine.

It is important to know that rhodium plating does not last forever. The plating on something that takes a lot of wear like a pendant can wear away in as little as one to two years, but with proper treatment and washing procedures, you can sustain your rhodium plated pendant to last a lifetime.

How to take care of your rhodium plated pendant

1. Take off your rhodium pendant when you sleep. Constant contact with body oils may eventually lead to discoloration.

2. Don’t let your rhodium plated pendant come in contact with your lotions and perfumes. The chemicals in these products help erode the Rhodium plating over time. Make sure the lotion has dried on your skin before you put your pendant on.

3. Remove your pendant before you exercise or do any sort of activity that will make you sweat. Just like body oils, sweat can be corrosive to rhodium over time.

4. Avoid exposing your pendant to harsh household chemicals.

5. Do not use ultrasonics; the rhodium plating may rub off more quickly.

6. Take off your pendant before getting in a pool or hot tub containing chlorinated water.

How to clean your pendant

1. Mix a wash of one-part mild detergent and three-parts warm water in a bowl.

2. Wash the pendant thoroughly hand. Lightly rub pendant.

3. Rinse the pendant under warm, until all detergent has washed away.

4. Pat the pendant dry with a towel. Don't wipe or rub vigorously because this can accelerate wear.

5. Buff the surface with a clean soft polishing cloth after it's dry.