White gold and platinum are both popular choices for jewellery, particularly for engagement rings and wedding bands. Each metal has its own unique properties and characteristics, so the choice between white gold and platinum often depends on personal preferences, budget, and lifestyle factors. Here’s a comparison of white gold versus platinum:
White Gold
Composition
White gold is an alloy made by mixing pure ‘yellow’ gold with other white metals, such as silver, palladium, or nickel. The addition of these metals gives white gold its signature white colour and enhances its durability.
Appearance
White gold has a bright, silvery-white appearance that closely resembles platinum or sterling silver. It is often plated with rhodium, a shiny, reflective metal, to enhance its initial whiteness and durability.
Cost
For over a generation, white gold has been less expensive than platinum, making it a more budget-friendly option for those seeking the look of platinum without the higher price tag. However, in recent years with the price of gold soaring, this is no longer the case and white gold has overtaken the price of platinum per gram.
Durability
While white gold is durable and suitable for everyday wear, however it is not as dense or scratch resistant as platinum. Over time, the rhodium plating on white gold will wear off, requiring periodic re-plating to maintain its bright white appearance.
Hypoallergenic Considerations
Some individuals may be allergic to nickel, which is commonly used in the alloying process for white gold.
Platinum
Composition
Platinum is a naturally white metal that is rare, dense, and highly durable. It is often alloyed with other platinum-group metals, such as iridium, ruthenium, or palladium, to increase its strength and hardness.
Appearance
Platinum has a distinctive silvery-white colour that does not require plating to maintain its appearance. It has a naturally rich luster and patina that develops over time, giving platinum jewellery a timeless and elegant appeal.
Cost
Historically, platinum has been generally more expensive than white gold due to its rarity, density, and purity. However, its durability and longevity make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a high-quality and enduring metal for their jewellery. In recent years, with the price of gold soaring, it has become less expensive than gold per gram.
Durability
Platinum is one of the most durable precious metals used in jewellery, renowned for its strength, density, and resistance to wear and tear. It is highly resistant to scratching, tarnishing, and corrosion, making it an excellent choice for everyday wear and heirloom pieces. However, like every other metal, it will be prone to scratches with everyday use which can be polished out by a professional jewellery polisher.
Hypoallergenic
Platinum is hypoallergenic and well-suited for those with sensitive skin or metal allergies, as it does not contain nickel or other common allergens found in some white gold alloys.
In summary, the choice between white gold and platinum ultimately depends on your preferences, budget, and lifestyle considerations. With platinum now offering a more affordable option, lasting white appearance, and boasting unmatched durability and hypoallergenic properties, we feel it is the perfect choice for a timeless elegance that makes it the only coveted decision for fine jewellery.
