How scratch resistant are rhodium plated objects?
Among the “white” decorative platings, rhodium is considered “best in class” in terms of toughness and wear resistance. Most items plated with at least .5 microns of rhodium are usually more scratch resistant than prior to being plated! Electroplated rhodium has a hardness ranging from 400-550 vickers which makes it very resistant to incidental abrasions. Over sterling silver objects, rhodium plating can prevent the formation of fine scratches that occur from normal handling and cleaning.
