White Gold X Platinum

Two of the most popular materials used in creating engagement rings are Gold and Platinum. But what are the key differences between these two, and which one is most suitable for you?

Physical Appearance:

Color: Metals such as palladium can bleach gold, resulting in a whitish appearance based on the specific composition. To enhance the whiteness of white gold, rings are often rhodium-plated. Platinum, however, naturally maintains a durable and very white appearance, requiring no rhodium plating like white gold does.

Weight: Platinum is significantly denser than white gold, giving platinum rings a more substantial and luxurious feel to some wearers. Depending on personal preference, some prefer lighter-weight materials for comfort.

Composition:

Gold is a precious metal valued for coinage, jewelry, electronics, and various industries since its discovery. However, due to the softness of pure (24K) gold, it is typically alloyed with other metals to enhance its durability for use in jewelry. (As explained above)

Durability:

Hardness & Malleability: Hardness refers to a material's resistance to scratching, while malleability is its ability to be shaped or bent without breaking.

Although pure gold is softer than platinum, an 18kt gold alloyed with other metals can be harder than Platinum (Pt 950). So, despite platinum being denser, it can scratch more easily than 18kt gold. However, platinum is less malleable, which helps secure diamonds more securely over time.

Additionally, scratching platinum doesn't result in material loss but rather displaces metal, creating a patina finish that enhances its antique appearance (ideal for vintage designs). On the other hand, while an 18kt gold ring is harder to scratch, any scratches may be more noticeable as they remove the top layer of gold. Rest assured, though, as the ring can be restored close to its original appearance through polishing and re-plating.

Long Term Care:

While white gold and platinum appear similar, white gold may oxidize over time, causing its rhodium plating to wear off and develop a yellowish tint. In contrast, platinum, being naturally white, maintains its color without fading to yellow. However, re-polishing and re-plating a white gold ring restores its white appearance.

It's important to note that white gold is more commonly used than platinum, making it easier for jewelers to resize and repair this type of jewelry.

Price:

Because platinum used in jewelry is purer, creating the same design as an 18kt white gold piece requires more platinum material. Additionally, platinum is more challenging to work with, leading to higher labor costs. As a result, platinum jewelry is significantly more expensive than gold. All else being equal, a platinum ring typically costs approximately twice as much as an 18k white gold ring.

Verdict:

Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preferences and budget.

Price:

The price of both white gold and platinum fluctuates over time. However, platinum remains more expensive than white gold due to its higher purity and the greater difficulty involved in crafting platinum jewelry compared to white gold.

Color:

Platinum retains its natural white color indefinitely. In contrast, while white gold achieves a similar appearance to platinum when alloyed with other metals, its rhodium plating can wear off over time due to everyday use. To restore its lustrous white finish, white gold requires periodic re-polishing and re-plating.

Strength & Durability:

Both white gold and platinum are strong and durable metals, with platinum being slightly stronger, more durable, and heavier than white gold.