Is White Gold a Suitable Option for Your Engagement Ring?
Is White Gold Suitable for an Engagement Ring?
Shopping for engagement rings is more than just scribbling karat counts and differentiating cuts. It also has a lot to do with picking out a gem and metal that is stunning, durable, and will last for decades. If you’ve been considering white gold but have remained on the fence for quite some time, take a look at some of its best properties and what you might have to look out for.
What is White Gold?
White gold is a metal alloy that, unlike platinum rings, boasts a more silvery and cooler tone with a whiter hue. It is produced by combining yellow gold alloys with various white metals such as nickel, palladium, and silver. It’s then slathered in a lustrous, silvery-white coating of rhodium.
Like any other type of gold, the purity of white gold is also labeled according to karats. Because pure gold is too soft, mixing it into white gold can make it more durable and malleable without bending out of shape quickly.
Use and Properties of White Gold
A precious metal, white gold is comparable to silver and platinum, although more durable and affordable. Its color depends on its composition and often appears silvery due to its rhodium plating. Known for its tensile strength and sturdiness, rhodium plating adds durability to white gold bands. White gold in its raw form is often a dull brown, grey, or pink color.
Over time, white gold often loses its rhodium plating, which exposes the other alloys it’s mixed with. Nickel can sometimes cause allergic reactions in those with sensitive skin, so it’s important to have your ring re-plated over the years.
The most common use of white gold is in the manufacturing of jewelry. It can be molded into versatile earring shapes, necklaces, and bracelets. They are often combined with the use of gold-palladium alloys due to their pliable, resilient, and softer characteristics.
The Pros of a White Gold Engagement or Wedding Ring
- It’s more affordable as compared to other traditional jewelry metals.
- It comes in a large variety of cuts and elaborate designs.
- It’s lightweight for wearing but is more durable than pure or yellow golds.
- It’s resistant to scratches, bending, and breaking.
- It’s versatile in its appearance and can suit all types of skin tones.
The Cons of a White Gold Engagement or Wedding Ring
- Due to the amount of nickel incorporated into a mix of white gold, it can cause allergic reactions in those with sensitive skin.
- If worn in water, it tends to tarnish and discolor.
- Its rhodium plating wears off over time and will require regular re-plating.
Conclusion
Though white gold and platinum are similar in appearance, there are various advantages that white gold has over its homogeneous counterpart. Once ruling the jewelry market, gold is no longer as desired as the modern white gold alloy, which is budget-friendly, contemporary, and versatile.
At Oath Jewelry, there is something special for every woman. Whether you’re engagement ring shopping or on the lookout for something more casual such as an anklet, bracelet, or pendant, we believe that the heart of all jewelry is the oath behind it. Shop our selection for a gorgeous piece that suits your style.