Emily went into a jewelry store to purchase her first gold ring. But when the jeweler questioned, "Would you like a yellow gold ring or a white gold ring?"—she was kinda embarrassed. Do you relate to Emily? Like most people, she (and you) didn't have the slightest notion of what white gold was!
So, what is white gold?
White gold is not purely gold per se but an alloy of gold and other metals such as palladium or silver. This results in a light, silvery-white color. But what is white gold composed of, and how does it differ from yellow gold?
Let’s mine deeper into the world of white gold!
White gold was developed as a cheaper substitute for platinum. It is an alloy of 75% gold combined with metals such as nickel and zinc, and it is silvery-white in color. An 18-karat white gold item is 75% gold. If you want timeless, elegant jewelry with a bright, silvery finish, white gold is a smart investment.
White gold is significantly different from yellow gold in terms of pure metal content, applications, and composition, which affects its pricing. So, if you are wondering what is the difference between white gold and yellow gold, here’s how white gold is made.
Pure yellow gold is too malleable for regular jewelry, so it is alloyed with hard metals. But in case of white gold, it combines 75% pure gold and 25% white metals such as nickel, palladium, or silver.
Interestingly, white gold is not really white—it is light gray!
In order to have its lustrous brilliance, it's plated with rhodium plating. Not only does this enhance its color, but also its hardness. Over time, though, the rhodium coat wears off, and replating has to be performed to keep its bright and platinum-like sheen.
Need a ring that's stylish and budget-friendly? White gold offers the best of both worlds. It's as classy as platinum but more affordable.
Its brilliant, silvery-white sheen makes diamonds pop, introducing radiance to understated and ornate patterns. Also the reason why it is so favored among engagement and wedding rings!
But here's something to keep in mind—white gold does require occasional upkeep. Its rhodium plating gets worn off, so it may require re-plating. But for those on a budget who yearn for luxury, white gold is the classic and sophisticated choice.
White gold is widely used for wedding and engagement rings. Why is that? It gives the luxurious look of platinum without the exorbitant price. Its clean, neutral hue makes diamonds appear even more spectacular.
Unlike yellow gold, white gold goes with any outfit or jewelry design. It's also light, so it won't strain your fingers. And it's tough—stronger than untainted gold because of the metal alloys added to it.
But white gold does require maintenance. Eventually, its rhodium plating wears off, necessitating re-plating to maintain its characteristic glow. But in spite of that, its classic beauty, affordability, and toughness make it an excellent choice.
If you want a ring that is classy, functional, and long-lasting, white gold is the way to go. If you prefer a plain band or a complex piece, this timeless metal will always be in style.
Want to learn more about white gold? This video talks about its composition, benefits, and why individuals prefer wearing it as jewelry.
White gold should be cleaned routinely with warm water and mild soap to make it shine. Do not use any harsh chemicals, and it must be stored apart to prevent scratching. Two to three times yearly re-plating will maintain a brilliant white shine.
1. White Gold vs. Yellow Gold: White gold provides a streamlined contemporary beauty, whereas yellow gold provides a more traditional look.
2. White Gold vs. Platinum: Platinum is more durable but much pricier.
3. White Gold vs. Silver: Silver will tarnish over time, while white gold stays brighter for longer.
White gold is a perfect blend of beauty, durability, and affordability. It offers the luxurious appearance of platinum without the high cost, making it a popular choice for engagement rings and fine jewelry. Its neutral tone enhances diamonds and complements all skin tones.
While it does require periodic re-plating to maintain its bright white sheen, this minor upkeep is a small trade-off for its elegance and strength.
If you are looking for a timeless, versatile, and cost-effective metal, white gold is an excellent choice for any jewelry collection. Explore the lustrous and affordable collection of white gold jewelry at BOLD Precious Metals! Elevate your jewelry game now!
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