Rhodium is a precious metal produced by nuclear fussion, it is possible to extract rhodium from used nuclear fuel. It holds the distinction of being the world's most expensive precious metal. It has an atomic number of 45 and is about as nonreactive as gold. The only way to dissolve rhodium is with sulfuric acid. Part of rhodium's appeal comes from its high reflectance, almost unique among the metals. It is sometimes used as an expensive and flashy alternative to silver in jewelry, on which it is sometimes plated. Some of the most expensive consumer items in the world are made from rhodium.

It was discovered in 1803 by William Hyde Wollaston, from platinum, he named it Rhodium from the latin Rhodon meaning "rose". Rhodium costs about six times as much as gold by weight. It is never found in mineral form, only being found in trace amounts within platinum or nickel ores. Most of it comes from South Africa and world production of the metal is only about 20 ton per year.

Very special and rare Metal!. Despite rhodium's great value, the cost of separation is generally greater.

Rhodium became famous in 1979 when the Guinness Book of World Records awarded Paul McCartney a rhodium-plated disc to celebrate his status as history's all-time best-selling songwriter and recording artist. Rhodium is used when other precious metals such as silver, gold, or platinum are considered not enough.