Platinum vs. White Gold: Which One to Choose?

When it comes to making jewelry, three types of metal are often used: gold, silver, and platinum. Each one has unique properties. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at platinum and white gold to see what the differences are between them.

Is It Possible to Distinguish Between Platinum and White Gold

Platinum and white gold are commonly used for jewelry, but they have some key differences.

Composition

Platinum is made of 95% platinum and 5% iridium, palladium, or other metals, and white gold is made of pure gold mixed with white metals, such as nickel and palladium, typically coated with rhodium. 

Color

When comparing white gold vs. platinum side by side, you may notice a slight difference in color between them that comes from the color of their natural properties. Before any modification, platinum has a white hue, while white gold is a bit yellowish. 

Durability

White gold and platinum are both durable, but platinum’s density and chemical structure make it more long-lasting. However, platinum is also a softer metal, which means that it’s more prone to scratches than white gold. 

Quality

Platinum is denser and more resistant to wearing away. On the other hand, white gold is more prone to thinning over time. However, since platinum is a softer metal, it can bend more easily and loses its shine faster than white gold. 

Care and Maintenance

Both metals can be cleaned with warm water and mild soap. However, platinum should be scrubbed with a soft-bristled brush to avoid scratching the surface. When it comes to storage, platinum should be kept in a cool, dry place away from other jewelry items to prevent scratching. White gold can be stored together with other pieces without getting damaged.

Popularity

Platinum has long been seen as a symbol of luxury and wealth. In contrast, white gold has become increasingly popular as a more affordable alternative in recent years.

Price

Platinum is much rarer than gold. Therefore, it’s also much more expensive. A platinum engagement ring can easily cost twice as much as a white gold ring.

How to Choose Between Platinum and White Gold

Deciding between platinum and white gold for your jewelry can be a tough choice. Both metals are beautiful and strong, but there are some key differences to keep in mind.

Firstly, what are the benefits of platinum and white gold? Platinum is more likely to scratch or dent than white gold, but it’s also less likely to become thinner over time. On the other hand, gold is more malleable than platinum, so it can be worked into thinner and more delicate designs.

Secondly, is platinum hypoallergenic? Yes, platinum is the only real hypoallergenic jewelry metal you can buy since it’s 90–95% pure. If you have sensitive skin, some of the metals used in the white gold alloying process may irritate it. If you have any of these allergies, platinum rings are preferable. 

Finally, consider the cost. Platinum is typically pricier than gold, so it’s important to factor this into your decision. Ultimately, the best choice between platinum and white gold depends on your individual needs and budget.

Why Is Platinum More Expensive Than White Gold

Platinum is more expensive than white gold for a number of reasons. First, platinum is rarer than gold, and it’s estimated that there is only about half as much platinum in the world as there is gold. Second, platinum is more difficult to extract from the ground. Unlike gold, platinum is not often found in pure form and must be extracted from complex ore deposits. The process of extracting platinum is also more energy-intensive than gold mining. 

Lastly, platinum is more versatile than gold. It can be used in a wider range of jewelry designs and is also used in a variety of industrial applications such as catalytic converters and fuel cells. For these reasons, platinum tends to be more expensive than white gold.

Difference Between White Gold and Platinum Rings

Platinum and white gold are both popular choices for engagement rings. Platinum is a naturally white metal, so it doesn’t need to be plated with rhodium like white gold. It’s also heavier than gold when comparing platinum vs. 18k white gold rings of the same size.

Platinum jewelry will last a lifetime with proper care, making it a wise investment. Even though white gold diamond rings are very beautiful, they are not as durable as platinum rings. 

The price of an 18k white gold diamond ring will vary depending on the size and quality of the diamonds, but expect to pay around $2,500 for a high-quality ring. It’s important to mention that 18k is the highest number of karats for white gold. So, if you’re looking for a 24k white gold diamond ring, we’re sorry to disappoint you, but there’s no such thing. That’s because 24k is pure yellow gold with no other metals.

The price of platinum rings starts at $2,000 and can go up to $10,000 or more, depending on the quality. Some people prefer platinum over white gold, but white gold is a lovely metal that is less expensive and just as long-lasting. It all boils down to personal taste.

Key Takeaways

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So, platinum vs. white gold—which is better? Ultimately, it depends on your personal preferences. Platinum is more resistant, but it’s also more expensive. White gold is a cheaper alternative that can still look good with proper care. If you’re looking for a jewelry piece that will stand the test of time, platinum is the way to go. But if you’re on a budget, white gold is a perfectly acceptable option. Whichever metal you choose, make sure to take good care of it.

Frequently Asked Questions