Ruthenium

Ruthenium is an extremely hard, shiny metal and is found in association with platinum ores. It is very rare; no more than 120 kilograms are produced per year. This accounts for the high cost of ruthenium; it is more expensive than both gold and platinum.

The name ruthenium originates from the Latin “ruthenia” which means “Russia”, the home of the discoverer of ruthenium.

At room temperatures, ruthenium keeps its shiny, metallic surface and does not tarnish. Acids cannot damage it when it is deprived of oxygen.

This presents very practical advantages for all guitarists: Ruthenium is unusually hard and is thus extremely durable, maintaining its shine while resisting corrosion, all of which guarantees that the guitar retains its good looks for a long time.


Schaller is the only manufacturer to supply components with ruthenium surfaces.

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