White Gold vs Yellow Gold

White Gold vs Yellow Gold

Choosing between white gold and yellow gold is a largely personal choice. While they might seem similar at first glance, they do have distinct differences. What is the difference between white gold and yellow gold? Ahead, you will discover how these two metals compare in color, durability, and more.

What is White Gold?

White gold is a stunning, silvery-white alloy created by mixing yellow gold with white metals such as nickel, palladium, or silver. To achieve its signature shine, white gold is often plated with rhodium, a durable and reflective metal that enhances its brilliance and protects against tarnish.

This metal is known for its modern and sleek aesthetic, making it a favorite for engagement rings. Its neutral tone pairs effortlessly with diamonds and colorful gemstones.

What is Yellow Gold?

Yellow gold is the classic choice for jewelry, cherished for its warm and timeless glow. Pure gold (24-karat gold) is too soft for daily wear, so it’s typically alloyed with metals like copper and zinc to improve its strength and durability.

Yellow gold retains its natural hue, making it an ideal choice for vintage-inspired designs or anyone who loves a bold, traditional look. Its rich color also complements warmer skin tones beautifully.

Differences Between White Gold and Yellow Gold

Color 

White gold has a sleek, silvery-white appearance, achieved by alloying pure gold with white metals like nickel or palladium and often coating it with rhodium for extra shine and durability. In contrast, yellow gold has a warm, golden hue by being mixed with metals like copper and zinc, which enhance its natural color. 

Durability

White gold’s rhodium plating makes it resistant to scratches and tarnish, but it may need re-plating over time to maintain its luster. Yellow gold is more prone to scratches but does not require additional treatments to retain its color.

Maintenance

White gold requires periodic re-plating with rhodium to restore its shine. Yellow gold only needs regular cleaning and polishing to keep it looking radiant.

Skin Sensitivity

White gold can sometimes cause irritation due to its nickel content, so it’s worth checking for hypoallergenic options. Yellow gold is generally hypoallergenic, especially in higher karat options.

Price

White gold is often slightly more expensive due to the rhodium plating. Yellow gold is typically more affordable, but its price varies based on the karat.

Which One Should You Choose?

Your choice between white gold and yellow gold ultimately depends on your personal style and how you plan to wear your jewelry. If you are drawn to a sleek, modern aesthetic and plan to wear your jewelry daily, white gold may be the best choice. However, if you love the idea of timeless elegance and a rich, golden hue, yellow gold is a beautiful option.

Shop White Gold Jewelry

Tiffany & Co. 

Princess-Cut Diamond Square Bracelet

A sleek 18k white gold bracelet illuminated by sparkling princess-cut diamonds. 

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Bvlgari

Divas’ Dream Earrings

18k white gold earrings artfully set with brilliant-cut sapphires and pavé diamonds.

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Shop Yellow Gold Jewelry 

David Yurman 

Pearl Classics Cable Halo Ring

An 18k yellow gold ring that showcases a lustrous South sea white pearl embraced by pavé-set diamonds.

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Cartier

Grain de Café Necklace

A gleaming 18k yellow gold necklace featuring 37 brilliant-cut diamonds and 422 princess-cut diamonds. 

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About The Author

Debbie-Azar-100px.jpg

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.

Debbie Azar

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