What is rhodium-plated sterling silver? Buying sterling silver CZ jewelry:
Saturday, August 1st, 2009High-quality sterling silver is an essential part of your cz piece. The .925 indicator is a sign you’re getting pure silver. But many product descriptions of cz sterling silver rings, earrings, and pendants often mention that the sterling silver is “rhodium-plated” or “rhodium electroplated.”and wonder if this is good for the jewelry piece or not.
Rhodium is a precious metal that is quite shiny. So, when it is applied to white gold, it helps preserve the finish and adds a shine that white gold does not always have on its own. Sterling silver has abundant shine, however the rhodium-plating helps to prevent the silver from tarnish and scratches.
Rhodium-plating can be a good way to protect your sterling silver jewelry. However, it does not last forever. With frequently-worn rings such as a wedding band, you’ll find that the rhodium-plating wears off in 1-3 years. When this happens, simply take your piece to a jeweler to have it plated again. This small investment will help preserve your jewelry for years to come.
