What is White Gold: Your Ultimate Guide
by Werneri Grundström
·3 minutes
White gold has become increasingly popular in recent years, particularly for engagement rings, wedding bands, and other fine jewelry pieces. But what exactly is white gold, and how does it differ from other types of gold? In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the ins and outs of white gold, including its composition, properties, and care requirements.
What is White Gold Made Of?
White gold is an alloy, meaning it's a blend of pure gold and other white metals such as silver, nickel, or palladium. The most common white gold alloys are:
The higher the karat, the more pure gold content and the softer and more yellow the metal will appear. Lower karat white gold contains a higher percentage of other metals, making it harder and giving it a whiter color.
The Properties of White Gold
White gold has several unique properties that make it an attractive choice for jewelry:
- Durability: White gold is more durable than pure gold due to the addition of harder metals in the alloy. This makes it a great choice for everyday wear, especially in pieces like bracelets and rings that are subject to more wear and tear.
- Hypoallergenic: Some people are allergic to certain metals, particularly nickel. Many white gold alloys are made with palladium or silver instead of nickel, making them hypoallergenic and suitable for those with sensitive skin.
- Appearance: White gold has a bright, silvery-white appearance that is similar to platinum. This makes it a popular choice for those who prefer a cooler, more modern look than traditional yellow gold.
Why Does White Gold Need Plating?
Most white gold jewelry is plated with a thin layer of rhodium, a rare and extremely hard metal in the platinum family. Rhodium plating gives white gold a bright, reflective finish and helps protect the underlying alloy from scratches and tarnish.
Over time, rhodium plating can wear off, revealing the slightly yellowish color of the white gold beneath. To maintain the bright white appearance, white gold jewelry should be re-plated with rhodium every 12-18 months, depending on wear.
White Gold vs Platinum
White gold is often compared to platinum, another popular white metal for fine jewelry. While they have a similar appearance, there are some key differences:
- Price: Platinum is generally more expensive than white gold due to its rarity and higher purity (90-95% pure platinum vs. 50-75% pure gold in white gold alloys).
- Durability: Platinum is harder and more durable than white gold, making it more resistant to scratches and wear over time. However, it can develop a patina with age, while white gold will maintain its bright finish with regular rhodium plating.
- Weight: Platinum is denser than white gold, so a platinum piece will feel heavier than a white gold piece of the same size.
Both white gold and platinum make beautiful, high-quality jewelry. The choice often comes down to personal preference and budget.
Caring for White Gold Jewelry
To keep your white gold jewelry looking its best, follow these simple care tips:
- Remove your jewelry before swimming, exercising, or doing household chores to avoid exposure to harsh chemicals and abrasives.
- Clean your white gold regularly with a soft cloth to remove dirt and oils. For a deeper clean, use a mild soap and warm water, then dry thoroughly.
- Store your white gold pieces separately to avoid scratches from other jewelry. A soft, lined jewelry box or individual cloth pouches work well.
- Have your white gold jewelry inspected and professionally cleaned by a jeweler every 6-12 months, and have the rhodium plating re-applied as needed.
The Bottom Line
White gold is a beautiful and versatile choice for fine jewelry, offering durability, hypoallergenic properties, and a stunning silvery-white appearance. With proper care and regular rhodium plating, your white gold pieces will continue to shine for years to come.