What Makes White Gold White?
When pure gold is mined out of the earth, it has a deep yellow color and a warm sheen. To get that classic white gold look, pure yellow gold is alloyed with silver metals like zinc, nickel, and platinum. Sometimes, to achieve a paler or less brassy yellow gold look, jewelers will cut the pure 24k yellow gold with the same metals used to make white gold. This creates a cooler, more silvery yellow gold. When trying to achieve the pale white visage of white gold, more of the silvery alloy metals come into play. For the brightest whites with no hint of yellow, some jewelers opt for a rhodium plating to coat the white gold piece. This plating gives the white gold its brightest color, but the rhodium will need replacing every 24 to 48 months. The Deutsch Signature 4 Diamond Milgrain Bezel Cluster Ring consists of 18k white gold that has been molded into an intricate clover cluster shape that holds four brilliant round white diamonds. The 18k white gold denotes the purity of the gold - 18k out of 24k is pure yellow gold and the rest is made up of a combination of white and silver metals to achieve the white gold look.
White Gold vs Platinum
What’s the difference between white gold and platinum? We’ll start with the visual differences: Platinum is a pure white metal, meaning it is silvery and bright. Even the whitest white gold will still have a hint of that warm yellow tone since it’s derived from pure yellow gold. Rhodium plating can be added to white gold jewelry to brighten the color but will need to be replaced every year or two.
As far as durability goes, platinum is one of the hardest metals on earth. It can go through significant wear and tear with no issues. Gold, including white gold, is contrarily a very soft and delicate metal. All this means is that they require different kinds of maintenance. Platinum is a great option for folks who are rougher with their jewelry (fellas, we’re looking at you), while gold works best for those who are familiar with the care required of luxury jewelry. Consistent polishing and proper care are paramount for a white gold piece but with the right upkeep, a white gold luxury jewelry piece can last generations. The Deutsch Signature Emerald Cut Solitaire Semi Mount has the best of both worlds — this flawless engagement ring can be customized with both platinum and white gold metal bands.
Why White Gold?
White gold is coveted by those looking for a sleek, cool-toned metal. Girls with a collection of silver jewelry might opt for a white gold piece to match the rest of their collection. If her wardrobe is full of blues and purples, white gold is a surefire way to perfectly accent her outfits. For those with a penchant for platinum but a smaller budget, white gold can often be a great alternative.