What is a White Gold Engagement Ring?

Purchasing an engagement ring is a monumental experience in any man’s life. It marks the beginning of a new existence, the start of a commitment between two souls to be joined forever as one. Thus it represents a great deal of meaning, and it should reflect the nature of the couple getting engaged.

If you see yourself and your bride-to-be as a stylish pair who try to balance a vintage traditionalism with contemporary flare, a white gold engagement ring may fit the symbolism of your upcoming betrothal. They offer a glamorous alternative to the conventional yellow gold styles seen in most jewellery pieces. If you’re going to enter the market for such a ring, it is helpful to understand its manufacturing process so that you can make the most informed buying decision possible.

What is it?

This type of gold is an alloy that contains pure gold mixed with nickel, silver or platinum. Many white gold jewellery pieces are coated with rhodium, a silvery-white coloured metal. Therefore this type is also more reasonably priced than the similar looking platinum and possesses a better tarnish-resistance than most other metals. These kind of engagement rings are appropriate for brides who like the lighter coloured look of silver or platinum, but still want a jewellery piece with traditional characteristics.

Facts

Rhodium is a precious metal from the platinum family that is used in the plating process to make white gold lighter. Almost all white gold is electroplated with rhodium to make the white finish totally uniform and to conceal any discoloration or staining from the alloying process. Because rhodium plating can wear off over time, jewellers generally offer re-plating services at a small additional fee.

History

The metal first made its mark as a fashion for white gold engagement rings during the 1920s as an affordable alternative to platinum. It primarily found its niche in Art Deco era wedding rings.

Carats

Like its yellow counterpart, the weight of white gold is measured in carats. A carat is a unit of measurement for valuable metals and stones, with one carat equalling 200 milligrams. The more carats there are in the band, the more valuable the white gold engagement ring will be. Carats are also divided into smaller units of 100 points. Accordingly, 50 points weigh half a carat. White gold comes in two carat weights: 9 or 18.

Frederick Holm is staff writer for of the F&L Designer Guides, compiled and written to help consumers choose a unique engagement ring design. Whether you want white gold engagement rings a princess cut diamond or an engraved band, we have ideas and opinions covering all the options. Offering advice, tips and suggestions on how to choose that perfect ring, F&L will accompany you on every stage of your search to find the right designer.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.