Rhodium is a rare and precious metal from the platinum group, valued several times higher than gold.
It is not used to make jewelry on its own because it is significantly more brittle than other precious metals commonly used in jewelry. However, rhodium is highly effective as a protective coating for these metals.

Rhodium-plated silver jewelry is more resistant to damage and less chemically reactive.
It doesn’t tarnish and retains its shine for a long time.

When repairing rhodium-plated jewelry — for example, resizing a ring or during other restoration work — it is essential to have the piece re-plated with rhodium afterward.

Even though rhodium protects the jewelry from mechanical and other damage, it still requires proper care:

Avoid contact with paints, solvents, and alcohol-based substances.

It’s best not to wear such jewelry to the gym, pool, or during fitness activities, as sweat and chlorinated water can damage the rhodium layer.

For home cleaning, the safest method is warm soapy water: soak the jewelry in soapy water for a few minutes, rinse with cold water, and dry with a soft cloth or paper towel.

If the rhodium layer becomes damaged, a professional jeweler can easily restore it through re-plating.