White Gold vs Platinum: Which Should You Choose?
Choosing between white gold and platinum can feel like a big decision, especially when it comes to something as important as an engagement or wedding ring. Both metals are beautiful and luxurious, but they have key differences that could sway your choice. So, is platinum better than white gold? Here is how the two metals compare in terms of color, price, and durability.
Color
Contrary to popular belief, white gold is not naturally white in color. White gold is essentially gold, which is yellow in color. It is made by combining pure gold with metals such as palladium and plated with rhodium to make it appear brighter and whiter. Platinum, on the other hand, is a pure white metal that keeps its white, metallic color. It is rarer than white gold and it is also hypoallergenic, which makes it a great choice for those with metal allergies.
Durability
Platinum and white gold are both durable metals. However, platinum is more durable than white gold because it is heavier and denser. A platinum wedding ring can be worn for decades without losing any thickness. That being said, it does have one downside: platinum tends to lose its high polish quite quickly.
White gold is generally more fragile than platinum, but it greatly depends on the coating and finish. While white gold is not as durable as platinum, it is nevertheless intrinsically strong and its finer details will be retained better than platinum.
Price
Platinum jewelry is more expensive than white gold jewelry. In fact, platinum is around 50 percent more expensive than white gold due to its density and rarity. Since white gold is a blend of metals, it is lower in price and more accessible than platinum. While white gold may be more affordable initially, remember that it needs to be replated every five years to maintain its color. In terms of maintenance, platinum is less costly.
Platinum vs White Gold: Which Should You Choose?
When it comes to choosing between white gold and platinum jewelry, it ultimately depends on your lifestyle, budget, and personal preferences. If you want a lightweight, affordable option with a bright white finish, white gold might be the perfect fit, especially if you don’t mind occasional maintenance.
On the other hand, if durability, hypoallergenic properties, and the allure of a naturally white, heavier metal appeal to you, platinum may be the best investment for the long run.
Shop White Gold Rings…
Tiffany & Co. Five-Row Ring
A sparkling wedding band in 18k white gold with round brilliant diamonds.
David Yurman Stax Emerald Cut Ring
A bold and vibrant ring in white gold showcasing a large central emerald and baguette diamonds.
Shop Platinum Rings…
Cartier Destinée Solitaire
A dazzling engagement ring in platinum set with an emerald-cut diamond and paved with brilliant-cut diamonds.
Harry Winston Sapphire and Diamond Ring
A unique and enduring platinum ring featuring six round sapphires and 35 round brilliant diamonds.
About The Author
Debbie Azar is the Co-Founder and President of Gemological Science International (GSI), one of the largest gemological organizations in the world, and a distinguished leader in the global diamond and jewelry industry. As an executive with extensive knowledge of the jewelry and gem lab industries, her entrepreneurial skills and vision have helped GSI achieve rapid and continuous growth worldwide, establishing 13 leading-edge gemological facilities on four continents. She currently serves on the boards of the Jewelers Vigilance Committee, Responsible Jewellery Council, and Jewelers for Children, and is a member of the 24 Karat Club of New York. She has been featured in Forbes, Daily Mail, Good Morning America, Bloomberg, Bloomberg Businessweek, Fox Business, Fox5, CBS2, BOLDTV, Varney&Co, The Street, and NASDAQ, among others.
