Hatton Garden Jewellers
Our Rhodium Plating Services
Whether you own a cherished family ring or have acquired an antique ring that requires resizing, or perhaps your finger size has changed over the years, our jewellers with over 50 years of experience are here to extend or reduce the size of your ring to fit your finger comfortably and securely—without compromising its integrity or overall design.
Our Rhodium Plating Process
Rhodium plating is a delicate and precise process that involves applying a layer of Rhodium, a precious and highly reflective metal, onto the surface of white gold or silver jewellery.
Step 1
Preparation
Before plating, the jewellery must be thoroughly cleaned to ensure that there are no oils, dirt, or any other contaminants on the surface. This is typically done using an ultrasonic cleaner, which uses sound waves to remove dirt and debris from hard-to-reach places. Any scratches or imperfections are laser infilled and polished out to ensure a smooth surface, as the plating will only adhere properly to a clean, smooth surface.
Step 2
The Rhodium Plating Process
Next, your item of jewellery is submerged in an electrolytic solution composed of rhodium salts and other chemicals.
Once connected to an electric current, the rhodium ions in the solution are reduced and begin to deposit onto the surface of the jewellery, forming a thin layer of Rhodium. The duration of this process controls the thickness of the rhodium layer.
Step 3
Finishing Touches
Once your item of jewellery has been plated to the desired thickness, it is carefully removed from the electroplating bath, rinsed with deionised water to remove any excess chemicals, and dried.
If you have any questions about our Rhodium plating service, please don't hesitate to contact us to discuss your requirements. Alternatively, you can drop by our workshop in person to discuss your needs in more detail with one of our jewellers.
Start the Process
Questions about Rhodium Plating?
Our jewellers are here to help with any questions you have about the rhodium plating process. Contact us directly for a quote, or book a 1:1 consultation with one of our jewellers and visit our jewellery shop in person.
FAQ’s About Our Rhodium Plating Services
From turnaround times and pricing to which jewellery can be rhodium plated, how long the finish lasts, and how to send your jewellery safely, we’ve answered our customers’ most common questions.
-
Absolutely! We know many of our customers aren’t local. Send your jewellery directly to our workshop at:
Laser Engraving Service
57 Leather Lane
London EC1N 7TJPackaging & Delivery Guidelines
Pack items securely to protect against scratches, dents, or damage.
We recommend sending all parcels via a tracked and insured postal or courier service for added peace of mind.
Include your name, contact details, and return postage address and order reference (if applicable).
Include your rhodium plating details and any helpful notes.
If you have any questions before sending your jewellery, feel free to contact us—we’re always happy to help!
-
The cost of rhodium-plating jewellery varies depending on several factors, including the type and size of the piece, the complexity of the design, and whether the item is set with stones. Larger pieces with more surface area require more Rhodium, which can increase the cost. Additionally, the condition of the jewellery before plating, such as whether it involves cleaning, polishing, or repairing, can also impact the overall price.
For a personalised quote, contact a member of our team. We’ll be happy to assess your jewellery and provide a tailored quote based on your specific requirements.
-
Rhodium is a rare and precious metal that belongs to the platinum family. It’s known for its bright, silvery-white shine and is super durable and resistant to corrosion. Fun fact: it’s actually one of the most expensive metals out there—worth even more than gold or platinum!
-
White gold is an alloy of 75% gold and around 25% palladium, nickel, and zinc. Due to the high levels of yellow gold within the alloy, white gold naturally has a slight grey, yellowish tint, so rhodium plating is added to give it that bright, mirror-like shine we all love.
Additionally, thanks to Rhodium’s impressive durability, it adds a protective layer to jewellery that helps guard against everyday scratches, scuffs, and tarnishing, which makes it ideal for silver, which is naturally more prone to tarnish over time. As a result, rhodium plating is a popular choice for keeping silver jewellery looking bright, shiny, and like new for longer.
-
No, Rhodium plating itself does not tarnish. Rhodium is highly resistant to corrosion and oxidation, which means it keeps its bright, reflective finish over time.
However, over time, the rhodium plating can wear off, especially on frequently worn jewellery like rings that are exposed to constant contact. When this happens, the base metal underneath, such as silver or white gold, can become exposed and may tarnish or lose its shine. To keep rhodium-plated jewellery looking its best, it may need to be re-plated every couple of years.
Kind Words
Here Directly From Our Clients
-
Johnie Thornton ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I have nothing but praise for these legends. Lester is a gentleman and a craftsman and gave me excellent advice on a tricky engraving on some jewellery.
-
James Bacon ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The results of engraving (a signet ring) are absolutely perfect. Price is very reasonable and the timeline is incredible.
-
Felicity Johnston ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Absolutely delighted with the service, Marie and Lester went above and beyond. Excellent customer service and even better engraving! Definitely recommend.
-
Inga A ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Excellent service from start to finish. They created a mock-up of my design for approval so quickly and the finished result of my ring is beautiful. Will be going back and recommending them to all. Special thank you to Marie and Lester.
-
Peter Saunders ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I’ve have been truly impressed by the quality of work delivered. After providing clear and specific instructions regarding the font type, size, and positioning, everything was carried out perfectly and delivered within an excellent timeframe at a reasonable price.
-
Amy Michell-Stamp ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Amazing customer service: sent the ring off day 1, it arrived, was engraved and sent back on day 2, and I received it on day 3! Thanks Beth!
-
Emily G ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The owners are incredibly friendly and welcoming - they were great in helping me decide certain elements and answering any questions. (They even offered to professionally clean my engagement ring whilst I decided on fonts!)
-
Michael L ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Sent my tungsten wedding ring away to be engraved with my fiancée's fingerprint and date of our wedding and have it completed and returned within a week. Fantastic service! Highly recommend.
Speak to Our Jewellers
Contact us directly to discuss your project with our engravers.
Visit Our Shop
Located in London’s historic jewellery district, Hatton Garden.
Our Blog
Explore Our Latest Insights
Discover the endless possibilities of engraving and jewellery personalisation.
-
![A laser cutting machine engraving intricate designs onto a wooden surface, with visible smoke in the background.]()
Laser Engraving vs Marking vs Etching: What’s the Difference?
While they’re often used interchangeably, here’s how to choose the right method for your jewellery, gifts, or products.
-
![A variety of marble, wood, and stone samples displayed on a wall, including different textures, colors, and patterns.]()
Laser Cutting & Engraving: Our Supported Materials List
From wood and stone to glass and precious metals, discover the possibilities of our engraving and cutting services.
-
![A gold signet ring and a magnifying glass are arranged on paper surface featuring a range of crest designs.]()
How to Choose a Signet Ring: Styles, Metals & Personalisation
Our guide to signet rings — from their rich history to styles, metals, and engraving options.
-
![Various clear glass cups and bowls arranged on a light blue surface, with sunlight creating reflections and shadows.]()
Glassware Engraving: Key Steps for Crisp, Professional Results
Discover the steps and key considerations for achieving crisp, clean, and consistent results on engraved glassware.
