Replating White Gold: A Complete Guide

Replating White Gold: A Complete Guide

White gold has long been a popular choice for jewelry, offering a sleek and sophisticated look that complements a wide range of styles. However, over time, the rhodium plating that gives white gold its lustrous finish can wear away, leaving the underlying yellow gold exposed. This can be a frustrating and disappointing development, but the good news is that replating white gold is a straightforward and relatively inexpensive process.

At M.J. Miller and Co., we've been helping our customers maintain the beauty of their white gold jewelry for over 55 years. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through the ins and outs of replating, so you can keep your jewelry looking its best for years to come.

Understanding White Gold

White gold is an alloy made by combining pure gold with other metals, such as palladium or nickel. The addition of these metals gives white gold a silvery-white appearance, but the underlying gold color can still show through over time. To combat this, white gold is typically coated with a thin layer of rhodium, a highly reflective metal that enhances the white color and provides a durable, scratch-resistant finish.

When to Replate

The need for replating can vary depending on a number of factors, including the wearer's daily activities, the quality of the original plating, and the type of metal used in the jewelry. As a general rule, it's a good idea to have your white gold jewelry replated every 12-24 months to maintain its brilliant, lustrous appearance.

You may also notice that your white gold jewelry is starting to look dull or yellowish, which is a clear sign that it's time for a replate. Additionally, if you notice any scratches or wear on the surface of the metal, it's a good idea to have it inspected by a professional jeweler, who can assess the need for replating.

The Replating Process

Replating white gold is a straightforward process that typically takes just a few days. Here's a quick overview of what you can expect:

  1. Inspection: Your jeweler will carefully inspect your piece to assess the condition of the existing plating and determine the best course of action.

  2. Cleaning: The jewelry will be thoroughly cleaned to remove any dirt, oils, or other contaminants that could interfere with the plating process.

  3. Plating: The piece will be submerged in a rhodium plating solution and an electrical current will be applied, causing the rhodium to bond to the surface of the gold.

  4. Polishing: Finally, the jewelry will be polished to a high shine, restoring its brilliant, lustrous appearance.

Caring for Replated Jewelry

To keep your replated white gold jewelry looking its best, it's important to follow a few simple care tips:

  • Avoid exposing your jewelry to harsh chemicals, such as chlorine or harsh cleaning products.
  • Store your jewelry in a soft, lined jewelry box or pouch to prevent scratches.
  • Have your jewelry professionally cleaned and inspected on a regular basis.

By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your white gold jewelry continues to sparkle and shine for years to come.

At M.J. Miller and Co., we're committed to helping our customers maintain the beauty and value of their fine jewelry. If you have any questions or would like to schedule a replating appointment, please don't hesitate to contact us. We're here to help you keep your jewelry looking its absolute best.

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