0
Yellow gold can be plated with rhodium, but it's not a good idea. Here's why:
Rhodium plating is usually done over white gold. This is because as the thin layer of rhodium wears away, the difference between the shiny white rhodium plate and the underlying white gold is pretty hard to see, so the white gold item won't have to be replated too frequently. Also, only a very thin layer of rhodium is necessary to cover white gold.
That brings us to why plating yellow gold is problematic. Rhodium costs ten times as much as gold. Since a much thicker layer of rhodium is needed to cover yellow gold than white gold, and because the yellow gold will really show when the rhodium wears away, yellow gold will need frequent and expensive replating.
If you decide to plate any gold item, make sure you go to a reputable jeweler or the results will be very poor.
Still curious? Ask our experts.
Chat with our AI personalities
Devin
Vivi
Steve
Add your answer:
Earn +20 pts
For white gold rings is it yellow gold dipped to make them white gold?
No, white gold is made by mixing pure gold with white metals such as nickel, palladium, or zinc to create a white-colored alloy. It is then typically coated in rhodium to enhance its whiteness and durability. Yellow gold is not dipped to create white gold rings.
Can a yellow gold ring be plated to make it white gold?
Yes, a yellow gold ring can be plated with rhodium to give it a white gold appearance. This process is commonly done to refresh the ring's color and give it a new look. However, the plating may wear off over time and need to be reapplied.
How can you tell the difference between gold and gold overlay?
Gold is a precious metal that is often used to make jewelry and has a higher value than gold overlay. Gold overlay, also known as gold filled, is made by bonding a layer of gold to a base metal. You can distinguish between the two by looking for markings such as karat stamps or "GF" for gold filled on the jewelry piece.
What does it mean if something is gold plated?
Something that is gold plated has a thin layer of gold electroplated onto its surface. This gives the appearance of being made of gold without the high cost of solid gold.
What is the different in white gold and yellow gold?
White gold is made by mixing yellow gold with other metals such as nickel or palladium to create a white alloy, often plated with rhodium for a bright finish. Yellow gold is made by combining pure gold with other metals like copper and zinc. The color difference is due to the metal alloys used in the mix.
