Jewellery described as one steel over one other signifies a base metalin this context, sterling silvercoated with a skinny layer of rhodium. Sterling silver is an alloy composed of 92.5% pure silver and seven.5% different metals, usually copper. Rhodium, a uncommon and costly platinum-group steel, is electroplated onto the sterling silver to boost its properties. An instance of this software is present in rings, necklaces, and earrings the place a brighter, extra sturdy end is desired.
The apply of making use of a rhodium end to silver serves a number of key functions. It imparts a excessive stage of reflectivity, creating an excellent, white look that’s extra lustrous than untreated silver. Moreover, rhodium supplies a protecting barrier in opposition to tarnish, a standard subject with silver alloys attributable to their copper content material’s response with sulfur within the setting. Traditionally, this plating course of has turn into more and more common as a strategy to preserve the aesthetic attraction of silver jewellery whereas lowering the necessity for frequent sharpening.
