White Gold vs. Platinum: What’s The Difference?

White gold and platinum have been used for centuries as the most prestigious materials in jewellery. However, many people are unsure of what sets them apart from one another- which means that it’s easy to end up with confusion when shopping around! Here we’ll go over some important differences between these two types so you can make a more informed decision next time.

White gold and platinum are two popular precious metals. They both have a bright, shining appearance. But what is the difference between these two materials?

White Gold

White gold is a beautiful white metal that is often recommended for its durability and shine. A white gold piece is not pure gold – when white gold is made, yellow gold is mixed together with white metals such as silver, palladium, or nickel. Once these metals are mixed together, a white gold piece will then be “rhodium plated” to give it a whiter, shinier finish. This rhodium plating is what makes a white gold piece look the same as a platinum piece when they are both in new condition. However, over time the rhodium plating on white gold will wear away, revealing the yellow gold underneath. At this point, you will likely need to bring your white gold piece back to the jeweller to have it re-plated. This process will need to be repeated every few years.

White gold is less expensive than platinum but still has a beautiful lustrous finish.

Platinum

Platinum is a white metal that is rarer than gold. It is heavier and more durable than gold, making it an ideal choice for fine jewellery. Platinum is typically an alloy containing 90% to 95% platinum and the balance alloy. Iridium or ruthenium is often used as a hardener alloy. It is also hypoallergenic, meaning it is less likely to cause an allergic reaction. Platinum requires less maintenance than white gold, since it doesn’t need to be re-plated.

Platinum is known for being luxurious and more expensive than white gold. It’s a rich and classic choice.

So, when choosing between platinum and white gold, it really comes down to budget and personal preference. If you are looking for a more affordable option, white gold may be the way to go. But if you want a piece that will last a lifetime, platinum is the better choice.