Do White Gold Engagement Rings Reign Supreme?

There are many things to consider when selecting that perfect engagement ring, and arguably one of the most important aspects of an engagement ring is the colour of the metal. For years, yellow gold has been in decline as result of the soaring popularity of platinum and white gold engagement rings. However, don’t be so quick to disregard yellow gold, which some have suggested is staging a comeback.

One cannot forget that the natural colour of gold is yellow and it has been used in engagement jewellery and wedding bands for hundreds of years, long before white gold and platinum came on the scene. The vintage elegance that a yellow gold ring emits, as well as the current trend for vintage and Victorian-era inspired engagement rings makes it unsurprising that yellow gold may very well be on its way back in. This classic and timeless style may even be the better choice for you, especially when you consider that real gold doesn’t tarnish or fade, which is what white gold engagement rings have a tendency to do.

However, the versatile nature of ‘white gold’ makes for a strong competitor, mainly because its neutral colour allows for it to be easily combined with any gemstone. Such an advantage is even stronger when it comes to diamonds, which are traditionally the most popular engagement jewellery stones. White gold engagement rings can cause diamonds to appear much whiter in colour than the same diamonds set in yellow gold. In particular, pave set diamonds have a tendency to absorb the colour of the gold being used, so using this material will improve their appearance. So if your heart is set on a diamond ring, it is best to go with white gold as a setting.

If you can simply not decide, however, there is a solution. For instance, some contemporary designers have taken to including both white gold and yellow gold in the same diamond setting, and this creates a beautiful visual effect that is much more striking than that of simple white gold engagement rings. Similarly, the introduction of gold in additional colours, like the beautifully romantic rose gold, means that couples now have even more choice.

Overall, remember not to just focus on the stone of your engagement jewellery but think carefully about the different types of gold and the other metals out there, like the increasingly popular platinum.

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 ring 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.