The rhodium plate is a "white" silver color. It looks like satin sterling silver—does not look like stainless steel like so many "silver-tone" jewelry pieces. Looks expensive. The finish looks great for years (I've had some earring posts for 20 years) and does not tarnish. TierraCast products do not contain lead or nickel. I have severe allergic reactions to lead and silver in my ear piercings, but I've never had a problem with a TierraCast product. None of the earring posts have ever broken. Great products. (No, I'm not related to anyone in the company, paid by TierraCast or compensated in anyway by the company. I'm so grateful the company still exists and continues excellent quality.)