Platinum vs White Gold: Which Metal Is Best For Your Ring?
Can you tell the difference between precious metals? It’s not always the easiest of tasks. Knowing the difference between platinum and gold is particularly difficult, so how will know what to choose when it comes to engagement or wedding rings?
If your wedding day is around the corner, you may be looking for an engagement or wedding ring. Some people prefer gold while others go with platinum, and it may be really difficult to make that choice.
Don’t fret. We’ve drawn up a guide to help you decide which metal is best for your ring – platinum or white gold. Let’s dive in.
What is Platinum?
Platinum is a precious metal used to make jewelry. It catches your eye with its shine and its beautiful silver-grey color. You can pair dazzling platinum jewelry with precious gemstones too, and the platinum rings look phenomenal on whichever finger you choose to wear it.
Platinum is 20% denser than white gold, so it won’t bend out of shape over a long tenure. Still, there is a catch. This metal is prone to scratches, so it needs a polish from time to time. Platinum differs from gold in its purity standards too, i.e., This metal isn’t measured in karats.
It may surprise you to find out that platinum is almost 2.5-5 times more expensive than white gold. Why is this? Platinum is rare and lustrous and highly sought after.
What is White Gold?
White gold is a popular jewelry metal. The metal is formed by mixing pure yellow gold with other white metals like nickel or palladium, giving it its beautiful color. Moreover, mixing gold with other metals makes it more durable. A 14-karat white gold ring (58% gold and the rest of the other white metals) is more durable than a classic 18-karat ring. A 14-karat gold ring is also cheaper than its 18-karat equivalent due to lower alloy prices. The gold-to-alloy ratios also create differences in metal luster and color.
Before deciding which metal to choose for your engagement party or any other big day, it is important to fully compare the two metals. We’ve done the research and compared platinum vs white gold to make it easy for you to decide. Here are the facts.
Composition Differences:
Platinum:
The first step in deciding whether platinum is the right choice for you is to pay attention to its patina. A type of oxidation makes platinum change its shade slightly and become less lustrous over time. No need to worry though. If platinum is what you want, you revive can it by taking it for a good polish from time to time. Platinum jewelry consists of 95% platinum and the rest is other metals.
White Gold:
White gold is not as pure as platinum. It is measured in karats. The higher the karat, the purer the ring but purer gold is more susceptible to damage.
The Benefits of Both Metals:
Each metal has its own benefits. If you’re looking for a ring that costs less or is more durable go for white gold. On the other hand, if purity, patina, and prestige concern you more, there is nothing wrong with favoring platinum.
Price is yet another factor that you should take into consideration. See how the rhodium-plated rings dazzle as its beautiful patina showcase a bright diamond.
Color:
If you are a novice, you may think that both metals look the same since both have a lovely silver-gray or white sheen. White gold has a slightly lighter undertone. It looks fabulous on people with fair skin.
Skin Sensitivity:
Platinum is hypoallergenic, so everyone can wear it, even those with sensitive skin. On the other hand, white gold often includes nickel which can cause allergic reactions in some people. So, if you want to buy engagement rings or jewelry for your beloved, make sure your partner isn’t allergic to nickel. If they have sensitive skin, play it safe and buy an 18-karat gold ring.
Lifetime and Permanence:
White gold will hold its own for decades. It seldom scratches and will withstand the rigors of daily life. Rhodium gives white gold its strength.
If you’re buying platinum you’ll have to put a little effort into its maintenance. The metal will need a polish every few years. Platinum jewelry is prone to scratching if brushed against a hard surface or while cleaning or washing dishes, though the density of the metal makes it strong and reliable, a secure part of your jewelry collection for years.
Platinum vs. White Gold – Find What You’re Looking for at Dolphin Galleries:
Knowing the difference between platinum and white gold makes it easy to choose when you buy an engagement ring or other jewelry. Dolphin Galleries has come up with some exclusive ring choices that could make your special day even more dazzling. We have engagement ring specialists that can help you to select the best piece. Our stunning collection of rings will blow you away.
Want to know more? Contact us.
Steve Schlag
Owner of Dolphin Galleries, Art & Jewelry Expert.