White Gold Engagement Rings vs Platinum Engagement Rings

There are many options to choose from prior to selecting a jewellery piece for your bride-to- be. Many people often confuse two of the most popular styles on the market, but in reality, white gold engagement rings are decidedly different than those fashioned from platinum. Each metal has its own properties that make it unique.

White Gold

This metal is an alloy of other metals that are light in shade. It can be 18ct, 14ct, 9ct or any karat. 18ct is made by mixing 75% gold with 25% other metals such as silver, palladium and nickel. Though the carat weights of white and yellow gold may be the same, the different hues are a result of the different alloys used in the formation process.

Traditionally nickel was also used in the alloy; however, it is no longer used nearly as frequently because it can cause allergic reactions in some people. Studies have linked it to dermatitis, while others claim the metal may even be carcinogenic over long periods of time.

When white gold engagement rings are new, they are coated with another metallic material called rhodium. Rhodium is very similar to platinum as they share many chemical properties, as well as their light colour. The coating is used to make the engagement ring look whiter since the natural colour of white gold is actually light grey. Though rhodium is rather hard and durable, as a coating it will eventually wear off. To keep a ring looking its best, it should be re-plated with rhodium every 12 to 18 months. Most local jewellers are able to re-plate with rhodium for a cost effective price.

Is the colour of white gold different from platinum?

The answer to this question depends on whether the jewellery piece is in its natural colour or whether it has been rhodium plated. White gold engagement rings that have been rhodium plated will not exhibit much colour differentiation with any platinum jewellery piece, since their shades will have been severely lightened by the rhodium coating. Platinum and rhodium possess very similar colour shades, along with many chemical properties.

However, the natural colour of white gold engagement rings and those of platinum are easily distinguishable, as the latter material is much darker than the former. The latter material is also much more expensive than the former, so if a light colour is the main priority in the ring you are looking to purchase, staying away from platinum could significantly help out your budget.

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.