Your ring likely turned gold because the rhodium plating, a protective layer, has worn away, revealing the underlying gold.
Understanding the Rhodium Plating
Many white gold rings are actually made of yellow gold alloyed with other metals to make them appear white. However, this alloy often still has a slightly yellow tint. To achieve a bright, white appearance, jewelers plate the ring with rhodium. Rhodium is a member of the platinum family and is extremely hard and reflective, giving the ring its desirable white shine. Think of it as a cosmetic top coat.
Why the Change Occurs
Over time, the rhodium plating wears away due to daily wear and tear. This wear is accelerated by:
- Friction: Contact with other surfaces (like keys, other jewelry, or even skin) rubs away the rhodium.
- Chemical Exposure: Lotions, soaps, chlorine, and other chemicals can degrade the rhodium plating.
- Normal Wear and Tear: Simply wearing the ring causes the rhodium to thin over time.
As the rhodium wears off, the natural color of the white gold underneath begins to show through, giving the ring a yellow or gold appearance.
What to Do About It
The solution is simple: have your ring replated with rhodium. A jeweler can easily reapply the plating, restoring the ring to its original white shine. The frequency with which you need to replate your ring depends on your activity level and how well you care for your jewelry. Expect to have it replated every 12-18 months under normal wear.
