What Is Rhodium Plating & Why We Use It
Every Madduck piece is finished with a layer of rhodium plating. That bright white shine you see isn't only about beauty — it also protects the silver and keeps the jewelry gentle on sensitive skin. Here's what rhodium is, why we use it, and how to keep it shining for years.
What Is Rhodium?
Rhodium is a precious metal in the platinum group (PGM) and one of the rarest in the world — often costing more per gram than gold. It's silvery-white, highly reflective, and resistant to tarnish and corrosion, which is why it's plated over sterling silver and white gold to create a brighter, more durable white finish.
Why Madduck Plates in Rhodium
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Bright white shine | A mirror-like white finish that looks as luxurious as white gold or platinum |
| Helps resist tarnish | Rhodium is highly inert, helping reduce darkening and tarnish on silver |
| Gentle on skin | Rhodium is hypoallergenic, and every Madduck piece is nickel-free — ideal for sensitive skin |
| Added durability | Rhodium is harder than silver, helping reduce everyday scratches |
Does Rhodium Fade? How to Care for It
Rhodium plating is a thin, micron-level surface layer. With daily wear, friction gradually wears it down over time — this is normal for any kind of plating.
To keep it shining longer:
- Avoid chemicals, perfume, lotion, and chlorine (pools/seawater)
- Wipe gently with a soft dry cloth after wearing, before storing
- Remove it during heavy housework or showering
- Store in a zip-lock bag or box, away from moisture
And when the finish eventually dulls, Madduck offers a re-polishing and re-plating service — free for the first time, then 350 THB per piece — to bring back that like-new white shine.