Gold, Rhodium and the Art of a Long-Lasting Finish

Clients sometimes worry that a bright finish has rubbed off. Almost always, nothing is damaged — a plated finish is designed to be renewed. Here is how our jewelers think about the surfaces you wear every day.

Solid gold, vermeil and gold plate

Solid gold is gold all the way through, so polishing never reveals another metal. Gold vermeil is a thick layer of gold over sterling silver; fashion pieces may use a thinner plating over another base. The thicker the layer, the longer the warmth lasts.

What rhodium does

White gold is naturally slightly warm. A final bath of rhodium — a rare, cool-white metal — gives it that icy, mirror-bright finish. It is a surface treatment, not the metal itself, and on rings it is also your first line of defence against everyday scuffs.

Why finishes wear

Rings take the most contact: keys, desks, handrails. Over one to three years, rhodium can soften at the edges, and gold plating may warm on the highest points. This is patina, not damage. The silver and gold beneath remain sound.

The gentle refresh

Re-finishing means a light polish, cleaning and a fresh electrolytic bath — often during a single atelier visit. Between visits, keep pieces away from perfume, chlorine and household cleaners, store them separately in a soft pouch, and wipe them with a dry cloth after wearing.

A piece whose finish is renewed on its natural rhythm looks new for decades. Bring it to us anytime, and we will tell you honestly whether it needs it yet.