When buying jewellery, the choice of metal is often just as important as the design. One of the popular options you may have come across is white gold. While it shines beautifully and resembles the elegance of platinum, you may wonder if it’s a good choice for your precious pieces.
Let’s look at the key points about white gold, its durability, and whether it’s a worthwhile investment.
Table of Contents
What Is White Gold?
White gold is an alloy created by mixing pure yellow gold with white metals such as nickel, palladium, or silver. This combination gives it a silvery-white appearance. Pure gold is known for being soft, so mixing it with stronger metals helps increase its durability.
The final piece is usually coated with rhodium, a metal from the platinum family, to give it extra shine and a more polished look.
Durability of White Gold
Jewellery made from white gold is known for being durable, but how tough is it? The answer depends on the carat weight. Common options include 14-carat (14k) and 18-carat (18k) white gold. The lower the carat, the more alloy metals are present, making the piece harder and more resistant to scratching.
An 18k white gold ring, for example, is made of 75% pure gold and 25% alloy metals. It is softer compared to 14k white gold, which contains 58.3% gold. For jewellery that takes more of a beating, like wedding rings, 14k white gold may be a more practical choice because of its higher strength. However, both types can hold up well in everyday wear.
Does White Gold Tarnish or Fade?
One thing to know about white gold is that the rhodium plating, which gives it a bright, silvery finish, does not last forever. Over time, the plating can wear away, especially on rings and bracelets that experience frequent rubbing and contact. When this happens, the jewellery may develop a slight yellowish tint because of the gold beneath the coating.
The good news is that you can have the rhodium layer reapplied to make your jewellery look new again. Replating is a standard service offered by many jewellers and is relatively affordable.
Maintenance and Care
Keeping white gold jewellery in good condition requires some care, as sometimes it can also turn yellow. It’s best to remove your pieces when doing activities that could lead to heavy wear or exposure to chemicals, such as swimming in a pool or using cleaning products.
You need to clean it with a soft cloth and mild soap helps keep the metal looking fresh. If scratches and dullness appear, professional polishing and rhodium replating will restore the shine.
Comparing White Gold to Other Metals
Here is a quick comparison between gold to a few other metals:
White Gold vs. Yellow Gold
The choice between white and yellow gold often comes down to personal preference. White gold offers a contemporary look, while yellow gold has a traditional and timeless appeal. In terms of quality, both are strong, but white gold has an edge in hardness due to the alloy metals used.
White Gold vs. Platinum
Platinum is another popular choice for jewellery, known for its natural white appearance. It is more durable and resistant to tarnishing than white gold but comes at a higher price. Unlike white gold, platinum doesn’t require rhodium plating and is hypoallergenic. However, platinum is heavier, which might not be ideal for everyone.
White gold is more affordable and lighter than platinum, making it a good option for budget-conscious shoppers who want a luxury look. Just keep in mind that you might have to budget for occasional replating.
Is White Gold Hypoallergenic?
One drawback to white gold is that it may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with metal allergies. Many white gold alloys contain nickel, a common allergen. If you have sensitive skin, choosing white gold mixed with palladium instead of nickel may be a safer option. Always check the composition of the metal and speak to your jeweller if you have any concerns.
In Closing Thoughts
White gold is an excellent choice for many types of jewellery, offering beauty, durability, and a more affordable price compared to platinum. Its silvery shine complements a variety of gemstones, making it perfect for engagement rings, necklaces, and earrings.
However, it does require maintenance, and some people may experience allergies to the nickel in certain alloys. Knowing the pros and cons helps you decide if white gold fits your style and lifestyle.
Whether you choose white gold for its modern look or its versatility, it’s a metal that delivers on quality and charm.