The answer to this question is… you can’t go wrong! Both of these metals are striking and strong and look very similar. Plus, they both glow and make brilliant diamonds POP. White gold and platinum have their own unique characteristics and uses in fine jewelry. Let’s compare the two metals in order to find out which best suits your lifestyle!
What is White Gold? Characteristics and Benefits
White gold is made by alloying (mixing) natural, 24 karat yellow gold with other metals which results in a white colored metal. Btw: a karat (abbreviated as ‘k’) is a measure of the purity of gold, pure gold being 24 karats.
White gold is alloyed with white metals such as nickel, palladium, silver, or zinc to change the metal color from natural yellow to white.
The 14k white gold creation process begins with pure, 24k yellow gold alloyed with white metals. The pure yellow gold is melted, and the alloyed metals are gradually added to the melted gold. Once the alloy is thoroughly mixed, it’s cast into molds to create jewelry components.
Alloy mixtures can differ between jewelers, leading to varying levels of white gold purity (e.g., 10k, 14k, 18k), differences in white tones, and various levels of hardness.
White gold is very popular in modern fine jewelry for its durability and strength. White gold is also a highly desirable metal for engagement ring settings since the white tone enhances the brilliance of white diamonds.
What is Platinum? Characteristics and Benefits
Platinum is one of the rarest and most precious metals in the world! It’s prized in fine jewelry for its durability, beauty, and timeless appeal. Naturally white and radiant, platinum doesn’t need rhodium plating, so it maintains its bright luster over time. It’s denser and more durable than gold, making it ideal for securely holding precious stones in place.
Pros and Cons of Platinum Jewelry
Platinum is popular for fine jewelry because of its naturally white color, incredible strength, hypoallergenic properties, and rarity. Unlike white gold, it doesn’t require rhodium plating to maintain its color, and its durability makes it an excellent choice for engagement rings and wedding bands. Platinum is also a great option for anyone with sensitive skin since it’s nickel-free and far less likely to cause irritation.
However, there are a few cons to consider. Platinum jewelry typically costs more than white gold because of its rarity and density, which also makes it heavier to wear. Additionally, while platinum is extremely durable, it’s not scratch-proof. Over time, it develops a soft patina, which is a green or brown film. If you prefer a bright, reflective shine, occasional polishing will restore its original luster.
White Gold vs. Platinum: Key Differences
When deciding between white gold vs platinum, the main differences are color, durability, weight, cost, and maintenance.
Color & Appearance
White gold jewelry starts as naturally yellow gold and is mixed with white alloys. It is then finished with a layer of rhodium plating to achieve its bright, reflective shine.
Platinum, on the other hand, is naturally bright white and doesn’t require plating, though it often develops a soft patina over time that gives it a more vintage look.
Durability & Weight
While white gold is strong and a popular choice for engagement rings and wedding bands, platinum is denser and even more durable, making it ideal for securely holding diamonds and gemstones.
Platinum is also heavier than white gold, which can give it a more substantial feel on the finger, while white gold offers a lighter, more delicate wear.
Cost
In terms of cost, white gold is typically more affordable (depending on the karat), making it a great option if you’re working within a specific budget.
Platinum tends to be more expensive due to its rarity and density..
Purity Levels
Platinum jewelry is typically 95–98% pure platinum, which makes it naturally hypoallergenic and ideal for those with sensitive skin.
White gold purity varies by karat, with 10k, 14k, and 18k being the most common. Lower karats contain a higher percentage of alloy metals, which can affect durability, color, and maintenance needs.
Which Metal Should You Choose?
Both platinum and white gold are great choices for fine jewelry. The “best” option depends on your lifestyle, budget, and personal style. Platinum is more durable than white gold, but it’s also heavier and more expensive.
Visually, the two metals will look very similar.
Which Metal Suits Your Budget?
Cost is often one of the biggest factors when choosing between white gold and platinum. Both are beautiful and durable, but they fit different budgets. White gold is offered in various karats to add some flexibility with price, making it generally less expensive than platinum.
Platinum is more expensive than white gold, but its durability lends itself to minimal maintenance costs.
How to Care for White Gold and Platinum Rings
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Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach, chlorine, and acetone as these substances can weaken the metal. Similarly, avoid abrasive cleaners such as powdered cleaners and toothpaste, as they can erode the metal and alter the color.
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Use only soft brushes as stiff-bristled or abrasive cleaning tools can scratch the metal.
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Be mindful of thick lotions and creams. These can leave a residue on your jewelry, making it appear dirty and potentially leading to discoloration.
Gentle Cleaning Remedies for White Gold & Platinum
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Good old soap and warm water! This method is classic and efficient. A soft brush is extra important as it’s a safe way to get in between small cracks where gross things settle.
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A jewelry cleaner - like the DRD Jewelry Cleaner - also works, but there needs to be something to move the dirt away, that’s why a soft toothbrush is great. Combine water with the contents of one DRD cleanser pod in the eco-friendly jar, immerse your jewels in the solution, let rest for five minutes, then scrub with the gentle brush (that’s included) to remove any gunk, rinse, and blot dry with a soft cloth! The solution is good for several uses; however, we recommend changing out the water once it becomes murky. The system comes with two cleanser pods. [Please note this cleanser is not safe to use on pearls, soft stones or other gemstones].
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We also offer our Jewelry Dish and Cleaner Set that comes with our cleaning solution! Everyone needs a trinket tray to store their favorite everyday jewels!
The moral of the story: follow your heart and consider your lifestyle when it comes to choosing platinum or white gold! You truly can’t make a “wrong choice.” Should you have questions about these important metal decisions, please reach out! We love you, always happy to chat.
