Jewelry electroplating — gold, silver and rhodium plating in practice

Electroplating is the electrochemical deposition of a thin metal coating onto an item. In jewelry it serves protection, colour change and aesthetics. The most common are rhodium, gold and silver plating. We run our own electroplating department as a production stage.

Rhodium gives a bright, white shine and protects silver from tarnish. Gold plating (including vermeil) gives a warm gold colour. Silver plating is used decoratively and protectively. We expand on the differences in rhodium vs gold plating.

Surface preparation is key: degreasing and activation determine adhesion and durability. The item is then immersed in a plating bath where, under current, metal is deposited. We control bath composition, time and voltage to achieve a repeatable thickness.

Coating thickness is matched to use — thinner for a decorative effect, thicker for wear resistance (e.g. wedding bands, everyday pieces). Durability also depends on care and contact with cosmetics. The coating can be refreshed at the manufacturer.

For brands, plating is part of the specification: coating type, colour and thickness are set at ordering. We do it on our own and entrusted items, within custom production or as a standalone service.

Electroplating protects and decorates jewelry; the key coatings are rhodium, gold and silver. Durability depends on surface preparation and coating thickness. In a brand's production it is part of the collection specification, worth a conscious choice.