Why White Gold Isn’t Actually White – And What You Need to Know About Rhodium Plating
When customers shop for white gold jewellery, they’re often drawn to its bright, silvery-white shine. It’s sleek, modern, and complements diamonds and coloured gemstones beautifully. But did you know that white gold isn’t naturally white? In fact, maintaining that crisp white finish involves an important process called rhodium plating—and it’s not a permanent fix.
Let’s dive into what white gold really is, how rhodium plating works, and what alternatives might suit your needs better.
What is White Gold, Really?
White gold is made by mixing pure yellow gold with white metals such as palladium, nickel, or silver to create a lighter white tone. While this alloy gives the metal a pale yellow or greyish appearance, it’s not the bright white colour many expect.
To achieve that high-shine, mirror-like white finish, jewellers apply a thin layer of rhodium—a precious metal from the platinum family—over the surface of the white gold. This is called rhodium plating (also known as rhodium dipping), and it's the secret behind the beautiful white finish you see in all white gold jewellery.
The Purpose of Rhodium Plating
Rhodium plating serves two main purposes:
Enhances Appearance: It gives white gold that dazzling, pure-white finish, making it visually similar to platinum and sterling silver.
Improves Durability: Rhodium is a very hard metal, offering some scratch resistance and acting as a protective barrier for the underlying gold alloy.
But while it sounds like the perfect solution, there’s a catch—it doesn’t last forever.
Why Rhodium Plating Wears Off
Rhodium plating is incredibly thin (usually just 0.75 to 1.0 microns thick), which means it naturally wears away over time. How long it lasts depends on a variety of factors, including:
Skin Type: Individuals with more acidic skin may notice the plating fading more quickly.
Chemical Exposure: Contact with household cleaners, perfumes, lotions, chlorine, or even frequent handwashing can erode the plating faster.
Wear and Tear: Rings and other pieces that get a lot of daily wear will lose their plating sooner than occasional pieces.
Lifestyle: If you lead an active lifestyle or frequently use your hands, rhodium plating will wear off more quickly.
As the plating fades, the warmer, more yellowish tone of the white gold underneath becomes visible. This can dull the overall appearance of your jewellery, especially next to diamonds or other white-toned metals.
How Often Should You Re-Plate?
To keep your jewellery looking its best, many customers choose to have their white gold pieces re-plated every 6 to 24 months, depending on wear and lifestyle. It’s a quick, professional service that restores that luminous white finish and refreshes the look of your jewellery.
Are There Better Long-Term Alternatives?
If you want a naturally white metal that won’t require ongoing plating, you might consider one of these two alternatives:
Platinum
Naturally white and hypoallergenic.
Denser and heavier than gold, making it more durable.
Develops a soft patina over time that can be polished.
Typically more expensive due to weight.
Palladium
Also naturally white and from the platinum family.
Lighter in weight than platinum but less durable.
Doesn’t require rhodium plating.
Higher in price compared to platinum and white gold and isn’t often seen in jewellery due to its cost and durability.
Both platinum and palladium offer a more low-maintenance option for customers who love that white metal look without the upkeep of rhodium plating however, there are pros and cons to each precious metal.
Final Thoughts
White gold is a beautiful and popular choice—but understanding its true nature and the role of rhodium plating helps you care for it properly. Whether you choose to keep your white gold jewellery looking fresh with regular re-plating, or opt for a naturally white metal like platinum or palladium, your jewellery should suit both your lifestyle and aesthetic preferences.
If you’re unsure what’s best for your needs, we’re here to help. Book a time with us for a jewellery check-up or a custom design consult, and let’s find the perfect metal for your next piece!