Core Material

• Sterling silver is relatively soft, malleable, and easily damaged-not suitable for jewelry. To prevent deformation or damage, silver is used in combination with other metals to make it more durable. 925  silver is the most common alloy mixture in jewelry. It must contain at least 92.5% pure silver, but the other 7.5% can be any metal.
• Usually, the alloy is copper. Experiments over the centuries have shown that copper is the best companion for silver without affecting its beautiful color. A small amount of copper added to the pound has little effect on the value of the metal. Instead, the price of sterling silver is subject to the labor of making the product, the skill of the craftsman, and the complexity of the design.
• Common uses of 925 silver in the necklace, because of its lightweight and durability, pure silver is one of the most popular alloys among artisans. Similarly, jewelry made of sterling silver is usually plated with rhodium or gold to give it a bright appearance and thus more scratch resistance.

Surface Plating

Rhodium plating is used to enhance the luster and durability of metals such as gold/ silver and base metal(Brass/Alloy) gives a smooth, shiny finish to the jewelry. it can really enhance the brilliance of the gemstone/crystal.

• What is rhodium?
  Rhodium is a rare and precious element that can be 10 to 25 times more expensive than gold. Rhodium is a member of the platinum group of metals and is silver-hued, highly reflective, and does not tarnish or corrode. It is harder than gold and is highly durable.
• How thick should the rhodium coating be? The thickness of rhodium plating generally used is 0.03-1.0 microns. Adjust the thickness according to different product positioning, and the cost will be different. If the rhodium coating is too thick, it will crack due to the brittleness of rhodium. However, if the rhodium coating is too thin, it may cause discoloration of the jewelry.
• Is rhodium-plated jewelry safe to wear?
  Yes, it is. Because rhodium plating is hypoallergenic, you won’t get skin reactions by wearing rhodium-plated jewelry. This is because rhodium does not contain any allergens such as nickel. In fact, if you have a piece of jewelry that is causing you skin reactions, rhodium plating the piece can eliminate this problem.
• How long does rhodium plating last?
  Many shoppers believe that rhodium plating is permanent. While it is permanent, like any other metal used in jewelry, it tends to suffer wear and tear with exposure.
• Will rhodium plating affect gemstones?
  This depends on the gemstone. Some softer gemstones such as peridot, pearls, opals, topaz, turquoise, coral, and treated or heavily included rubies, and emeralds can be damaged during the process. These gemstones, and many others, are not able to cope with the sulfuric acids and heat in the electroplating solutions and their surfaces can be damaged, becoming spotty and studded. Cubic zirconia will not be affected.
• How can I make rhodium plating last longer?
  Rhodium plating is bound to wear off after a while, but there are some steps you can take to make it last as long as possible.

Care Tips

• Avoid rubbing the rhodium plating on your ring. For example, constantly washing your hands can wear it off quicker.
• Avoid exposing your jewelry to harsh chemicals. Always take off your jewelry when dealing with chemicals or wear rubber gloves to protect your rings.
• Take your jewelry off when swimming in heavily chlorinated pools as the chlorine can damage the plating. Perfumes and cosmetics can also affect rhodium plating. Avoid contact with these and wipe away any residue if it does come into contact.