How Often Does White Gold Need to Be Replated?

Sep 22 2025 0 comments

White gold is one of the most popular choices for engagement rings and fine jewelry. Its bright, silvery-white shine makes it a sophisticated alternative to platinum, offering both beauty and affordability. However, unlike platinum, white gold doesn’t naturally have its iconic white luster — it gets its radiant finish from a thin coating of rhodium plating.

Over time, this plating wears off, leading many to ask: how often does white gold need to be replated?

Why White Gold Needs Rhodium Platinum

Pure gold is naturally yellow. To achieve a white tone, jewelers mix gold with white alloys such as nickel, palladium, or silver. However, even with these alloys, the result is a pale yellowish hue.

To give it a bright, mirror-like finish, white gold is coated with rhodium, a rare, durable metal from the platinum family. This rhodium plating enhances:

Shine and whiteness
Scratch resistance
Hypoallergenic properties

But since rhodium plating is only a few microns thick, it gradually wears away with daily wear.

Engagement Rings

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Cushion Hidden Halo with Pave Engagement ring

How Often Should White Gold Be Replated?

On average, white gold jewelry should be replated every 12 to 24 months. However, the exact timing depends on several factors:

Daily Wear: Engagement rings or wedding bands worn every day may need replating yearly.
Lifestyle: Exposure to chemicals (perfume, chlorine, lotions) can wear plating faster.
Thickness of Plating: Thicker rhodium coatings last longer than standard plating.
Skin Chemistry: Natural oils and pH levels can influence how quickly plating fades.

Signs Your White Gold Needs Replating

You may need to replate your white gold jewelry if you notice:

A yellow tint showing through the metal
Dullness or lack of shine
Visible scratches or discoloration
Uneven finish around high-contact areas (like the bottom of a ring band)

Can You Extend the Time Between Replating

Yes! With proper care, you can extend the intervals between replating:

Remove rings when doing household chores or swimming.
Avoid harsh chemicals, perfumes, and lotions directly on your jewelry.
Store pieces separately in soft pouches to reduce scratching.
Clean gently with mild soap and water instead of abrasive cleaners.

Cost of White Gold Replating

Replating costs vary depending on the jeweler and the thickness of the rhodium layer. On average, it can range from $40 to $100 per ring. Some jewelers, including luxury brands, may offer complimentary or discounted replating services with purchase.

White Gold vs. Platinum Maintenance

Platinum: Naturally white, never needs replating (though it can develop a patina).
White Gold: Requires regular replating to maintain brightness.

If you prefer low-maintenance luxury, platinum may be better. But if you love the warmth, affordability, and versatility of white gold, occasional replating is a small trade-off.

Conclusion

White gold remains a timeless favorite for engagement rings and wedding jewelry, combining elegance with practicality. While it does require rhodium replating every 1–2 years, proper care can help maintain its shine longer.

At KRK Jewels, we specialize in stunning white gold engagement rings crafted with precision, ensuring that your jewelry not only shines on day one but can be easily maintained for a lifetime of beauty.