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The Continual Development of White Gold Engagement Rings

Author: Lisa Jeeves
by Lisa Jeeves
Posted: Nov 13, 2014

White gold became a very popular medium in the 1920s and engagement rings made of it were often designed in the new Art Deco style, a response to the modernist movement of experimentation with new products and manufacturing methods.

The medium had not been long in production and it was an affordable option to platinum, which up until then had been out of the reach of ordinary working people. Now, with a new age after the First World War, people wanted a more exciting and vibrant way of life to their Victorian parents. Hollywood stars were wearing platinum and diamond rings and now with the availability of white gold it was possible for normal young people to emulate them with the glamorous gold.

White gold engagement rings of the Art Deco period, although beautiful and desirable, do have a dullish grey appearance. This is because the metal is an alloy and, depending what other metals have been used, the shades do vary.

Developments during the 1930s

During the 1930s, rhodium was beginning to be used to plate silverware so that it needed less polishing, and this practice spread to plating white gold to give it have a whiter lustre. Rhodium is itself very hard and is the most expensive metal in the world as it is extracted from platinum, which is also a rare and expensive metal.

It was not until after World War II that rhodium plating started to become much more widespread. This coincided with the increased popularity of the diamond as the gem of choice for engagement rings, possibly influenced by how white gold enhanced the brilliance and cut of the diamond. Its affordability led to a rise in popularity of white gold engagement rings. Today, with interest being displayed in ethical sourcing of gemstones and gold, rhodium also has environmental questions surrounding it as the plating process uses sulphuric acid, which causes pollution problems when it enters water systems.

Ultra-Modern Designs

Today white gold engagement rings continue to hold their popularity and range from "new vintage" to ultra-modern designs. The metal is just as suitable for displaying the brilliance of other gems, such as sapphires, emeralds and rubies, not just diamonds. In fact, many women are choosing coloured stones to reflect their own personal style.

The coolness and fluidity of white gold lends itself to contemporary, modern designs, as it is a much more malleable metal than platinum. It is a good choice for couples that like the look of platinum or even silver but want a ring that is hardwearing and does not tarnish. It is, however, vital to discuss with the designer or retailer what type of alloy has been used to make the ring, how long the plating will last and perhaps investigate a version that does not need plating but has slightly less lustre.

Frederick Holm is staff writer for the F&L Designer Guides, compiled and written to help consumers choose a unique engagement ring design. From the best white gold engagement rings to precious metals, coloured stones and vintage styles, 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.

About the Author

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.

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Author: Lisa Jeeves

Lisa Jeeves

Member since: Oct 18, 2013
Published articles: 4550

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