Both PVD and Rhodium are liquids that can be adhered to a piece of jewelry to create a black finish, however they’re very different in how they’re applied, how they wear, the deepness of the color, and what they cost.
Here’s a clear comparison:
What They Are:
Black PVD Plating
- PVD = Physical Vapor Deposition
- A high-tech coating process done in a vacuum chamber
- Technically a coating, not traditional electroplating
Black Rhodium Plating
- A form of electroplating (like yellow or pink gold plating)
- Uses a dark alloy of rhodium (a precious metal in the platinum family)
- Applied over gold, silver, or platinum
Durability & Wear:
Black PVD
- More durable and scratch-resistant
- Bonds at a molecular level
- More resistant to fading so better for everyday wear
- Common in men’s jewelry and watches
Black Rhodium
- Thinner layer
- Can wear off over time (especially on rings)
- Will need replating (if not cared for correctly)
- More prone to showing wear on edges
👉 If durability is your priority, PVD usually lasts longer.
Appearance
Black PVD
- Deep, matte to satin black
- Modern/industrial look
- Color is usually very consistent
Black Rhodium
- Dark charcoal to gunmetal
- Often has a subtle metallic sheen
- Can look more “luxury” or high-end
👉 Black rhodium often has a slightly richer, more refined tone given that its not jet black in color.
Cost
-
Black PVD = more expensive
- Rhodium is a precious metal (very high market price) but very little is used during the electroplating process.
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Black Rhodium = more affordable
- Process is industrial, however usually done in small quantities, driving the price per piece up.