Platinum vs White Gold: What's the Difference? [2023]

Platinum and white gold are two popular choices for engagement rings and other fine jewelry. But what’s the difference between these two metals?

Platinum is a rare metal that is heavier and more dense than gold. It is also more scratch resistant and hypoallergenic.

White gold, on the other hand, is an alloy of gold and other metals, such as nickel, zinc, or copper. The proportion of gold to other metals can vary, but 14K white gold typically contains 58% gold.

White gold is also often plated with rhodium, a member of the platinum family, to give it a bright white finish.

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What’s the Difference Between Platinum and White Gold?

Platinum is a pure metal, meaning it is not alloyed with any other metals. White gold, on the other hand, is an alloy of gold and at least one white metal, typically nickel, zinc, or copper. As a result, platinum is generally more expensive than white gold.

Platinum is also more durable than white gold, making it a good choice for rings and other jewelry that will see a lot of wear.

However, white gold has a brighter luster than platinum, so it may be a better choice for pieces that are meant to sparkle, such as diamond earrings.

Ultimately, the decision of which metal to choose comes down to personal preference and budget.

Color

While platinum and white gold may appear similar at first glance, there are actually a few key differences between these two metals.

Platinum is a purer metal, meaning it is whiter in color and less likely to yellow over time. It is also more durable than gold, making it a good choice for everyday wear.

White gold, on the other hand, is an alloy of gold and other metals (usually nickel or copper). This gives it a slightly yellower hue than platinum, but it is also less expensive.

If you want a metal that will retain its bright white color for years to come, platinum is the way to go. But if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, white gold may be the better choice.

Durability

When it comes to fine jewelry, many people think of gold as the standard. However, there are actually a variety of different metals that can be used to create beautiful and long-lasting pieces.

Platinum and white gold are two popular options that offer a unique look and a number of benefits. Platinum is one of the strongest metals available, meaning that it is very durable and resistant to scratches.

White gold is made by alloying gold with other metals, typically nickel. This gives it a white color that is similar to platinum. However, over time the metal can start to yellow as the other metals slowly oxidize. As a result, white gold will often need to be replated every few years to maintain its bright appearance.

In terms of durability, both platinum and white gold are strong choices for jewelry. However, platinum may be the better choice for those who want their ring to keep its original luster for many years to come.

In terms of maintenance, both metals will need to be polished from time to time to keep them looking their best.

However, overall, platinum and white gold are both excellent choices for those who want their jewelry to last.

Allergies

If you’re considering a white gold engagement ring, it’s important to be aware of the potential for nickel skin allergies.

While most people are not allergic to nickel, a small percentage of the population is sensitive to it. For those people, coming into contact with nickel can cause a red, itchy rash. In some cases, the rash can be severe enough to blister.

If you have any doubts about whether or not you’re allergic to nickel, it’s best to err on the side of caution and choose a different metal for your engagement ring.

For people with nickel allergies, platinum is typically the better choice. Platinum is a naturally white metal, but it is also very dense and contains zero nickel.

White gold, on the other hand, is an alloy of nickel and gold. For this reason white gold is often coated with rhodium, a metal that acts as a barrier against nickel. Over time the rhodium coating can wear away and will need to be recoated.

Price

When it comes to precious metals, gold is the undisputed king. But what about silver and platinum? These two metals are often used in jewelry and other luxury items, but which one is more expensive? The answer may surprise you.

While platinum is more rare than gold, it is not necessarily more valuable. In fact, the price per ounce of gold and platinum are very similar.

The primary difference in price between platinum and white gold rings is the amount of platinum needed to make the ring. In general it takes more platinum to make a ring than gold. This is why platinum rings are usually 50 percent more expensive.

What is White Gold, Exactly?

White gold is an alloy of gold and other metals, such as nickel, zinc, and copper. The exact composition of white gold varies depending on the jeweler and karat weight, but it is typically around 75% gold and 25% other metals.

The addition of other metals gives white gold its signature color and also makes it more durable than pure gold. White gold is often used in jewelry because it has a classic look that goes with any outfit. It is also less likely to tarnish than other metals, making it a good choice for people with sensitive skin.

White gold jewelry will often be given a finish of rhodium, which is a harder metal that can help to protect the piece from wear and tear.

Whether you’re looking for a new pair of earrings or a special gift for someone, white gold is a beautiful and versatile option.

What is Platinum?

Ah, platinum. The precious metal of engagement rings and other fine jewelry. But what exactly is it?

Platinum is a beautiful silvery-white metal that is prized for its durability and rarity. It is often used in jewelry and other decorative items, but it also has a number of industrial applications.

Platinum is found in small quantities in the earth’s crust. It is often used in jewelry because it is hypoallergenic and does not tarnish.

It’s also the heaviest of the precious metals, which is why engagement rings made with platinum tend to be more expensive than those made with gold.

Platinum is mined all over the world, but most of it comes from South Africa. If you’re looking for a unique engagement ring, or just a piece of fine jewelry that will stand the test of time, platinum is a great choice.

Bottom Line

There are many reasons why couples may choose a platinum or white gold engagement ring. For one, platinum and white gold are much more resistant to scratches and scuffs than other metals, making them a good choice for an engagement ring that will be worn every day.

Because platinum and white gold are so durable, they will retain their shape and luster for many years to come. Ultimately, platinum and white gold are popular choices for engagement rings because they are beautiful, durable, and low-maintenance.

Platinum is a particularly popular choice because it is extremely strong and durable. And because it is so rare, platinum engagement rings tend to be quite expensive.

White gold is less expensive than platinum, but still quite durable. White gold engagement rings often have a plated rhodium finish, which helps to protect the metal from scratches.

So when you are shopping for engagement rings, keep in mind that there are many different metals to choose from. And each one has its own unique benefits.