What is Rhodium?

Rhodium is a metal which is a member of the platinum group. It is used in the jewelry industry because of its high reflectivity, corrosion resistance, and hardness. When used as a plating, rhodium can protect the surface of jewelry from scratches and tarnishing. Rhodium is also used for enhancing the appearance of metals such as gold and silver. Although it is often used to enhance other metals, it is more frequently being used by itself, especially in rings.

 

Rhodium is rare and very useful in a wide variety of industries. Because of its high reflectivity, it is used in mirrors and search lights. Due to high demand, the price of rhodium hit $10,010 per ounce in 2008. According to Deutche Bank, for every ounce of rhodium mined, 114 ounces of gold are mined.