Plating an Antique Ring

by Nikole
(Calgary, AB, CAN)

I have an antique engagement ring that has been passed down in our family for generations. It has a yellow gold band and I would prefer if it were white gold or platinum. My only issue is that I don't want to change the band completely. Would plating be an option for me?

Hi Nikole,

Plating the ring would be an option - but with an antique ring there are additional considerations to keep in mind.

Before a ring can be plated - with rhodium or even with a plate of platinum - the ring must be completely cleaned and buffed. If the ring is not thoroughly cleaned and buff, the plate will not 'stick' to the ring's metal very well. Any scratches on the ring that are not buffed out will actually be more apparent after a plate application too.

With gold antique rings, cleaning the ring before a plate application can remove the beautiful patina that develops on the ring with time. Removing the patina could affect the value of the ring and would change the color of the band.

It's important to keep in mind too, that any type of plate - platinum or rhodium - will need to be continually reapplied about once a year (depending on how often you wear the ring).

Before you decide to plate the ring, please take the ring to an antique jeweler who is experienced with antique jewelry restoration and appraisal. A professional jeweler can assess the amount of patina on the ring, how much of the ring's value would be impacted if the patina were removed and if the ring is a good candidate for plating.

Last but not least, if you decide to have the ring plated, be sure to take the ring to a jeweler who has experience plating antique rings.

I hope this info is helpful, and do write again if you have any additional questions.

Suzanne Gardner