Platinum vs. White Gold: Which is Best?
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Platinum and white gold are some of the most popular metals for engagement rings, wedding rings and other fine jewelry. Both are durable, valuable, easy to style, and perfect for a variety of budgets. Still, there are key differences between white gold and platinum to keep in mind when shopping for jewelry online or at local jewelry stores.
Ready to learn about how platinum compares to white gold? Keep reading this guide on white gold versus platinum to discover which of these popular precious metals is your best choice.
Key Differences Between White Gold and Platinum
There are some big differences between these timeless jewelry metals that can influence their price, durability and upkeep. Here are the main differences to keep in mind for white gold vs. platinum.
Metal
Material
Pure gold mixed with metals such as nickel, silver and palladium. All white gold jewelry receives a rhodium coating
Pure platinum
Rarity
More plentiful
Much rarer
Appearance
Silvery-white color
Natural white sheen
Upkeep
May need routine replating to keep its color
Maintains its color without any extra upkeep
Durability
Tough metal, but can require replating to keep its color
Durable for frequent wear, polishing can restore its shine
Hypoallergenic
Not always
Yes
Price
More affordable
Higher price
While this is a quick look at the breakdown of platinum vs. gold, there are more nuanced differences between these metals. Keep the following comparisons and similarities when shopping for white gold jewelry or platinum jewelry.
What is White Gold?
White gold is an alloy made by mixing pure gold with additional metals like nickel, palladium or silver and then coating the metal with a rhodium plating. The result is a shining, silvery-white metal that’s perfect for frequent wear.
White gold engagement rings and other pieces made from this classic metal may need rhodium replating every few years to maintain the pure silvery color and shine. Visit our gold education guide to learn more.
What is Platinum?
Platinum is a rare metal with a natural white sheen that’s present at every layer of the material. This makes platinum engagement rings and other jewelry pieces incredibly durable and easy to maintain. Platinum is valued for its rarity, density, hypoallergenic qualities, and beauty. Visit our platinum education guide for more details about this metal’s history and upkeep.
A Closer Look at White Gold Vs. Platinum
Whether comparing platinum vs. 18k white gold or 14k white gold, there are key differences between these metals to keep in mind. Platinum and white gold both have differences in composition, appearance, durability, upkeep, price, and hypoallergenic qualities.
Composition
Typically, jewelry made from platinum will be heavier than jewelry made from white gold due to the density differences of the metals. This density makes platinum wedding rings just as popular and fit for frequent wear as white gold wedding rings.
Appearance
In the platinum vs. white gold debate, appearance is a more subtle difference between the two. Both metals have variations of white and grayish white colors. Platinum has a silvery-white sheen, often with undertones of grayish white. Its color is present throughout the entire piece, and it will not fade.
White gold also has a white and grayish white color, with a milky-white shine from its rhodium plating. But white gold can change color over time, with the rhodium plating wearing off to reveal a base alloy that has pale yellow undertones and a matte grayish white color. Replating can restore the original look of white gold.
Durability
White gold and platinum are both durable metals perfect for frequent wear. These precious metals can securely hold diamonds and gemstones without worry. Platinum is a little denser than white gold, making it especially popular for designer jewelry.
Upkeep
For easier upkeep, choose platinum. This metal maintains its natural color without any extra care. But, platinum can form a patina over time. If you’re interested in jewelry you can refresh with rhodium replating, choose white gold.
Price
Due to its rarity, platinum boasts a higher price tag than white gold. For more budget-friendly prices, opt for white gold. For a more luxurious piece, choose platinum.
Skin Sensitivities
Because platinum is a purer material than white gold, it’s especially popular for those in search of hypoallergenic jewelry. Depending on your skin’s sensitivities, white gold can still be a great choice. If you are not allergic to white gold’s metals or rhodium, it’s a good fit as well.
FAQs About Platinum vs White Gold
Explore our frequently asked questions about platinum vs. white gold for more guidance in choosing your perfect jewelry metal.
Which metal is better for wedding bands and engagement rings?
Both platinum and white gold (or gold of any color, for that matter) are perfect for meaningful jewelry like wedding rings, engagement rings or promise rings. Both metals are durable, easy to care for, stylish, and fit for frequent wear. The “best” metal is the one that matches your budget and preferences.
Is platinum better than white gold?
Platinum is rarer and denser than white gold, but both metals are equally beautiful and perfect for necklaces, earrings, rings, bracelets, and all types of jewelry. Platinum is not necessarily better than white gold, it’s just different. It is considered a more luxe option, but both metals are popular for fine jewelry.
How does platinum compare to higher karat gold?
When comparing platinum vs. 18k white gold, the differences in the metals are a little more pronounced. Platinum may have a whiter appearance and a bit more heft. But both are great fits for durable and stylish fine jewelry.
What is rhodium plating?
Rhodium is a rare, precious metal that is applied to white gold jewelry to give it a signature silvery-white shine.
Does white gold jewelry change color?
White gold can sometimes look a little yellower over time as its rhodium plating wears away. A quick replating will restore the jewelry’s original color.
Is platinum or white gold shinier?
The rhodium plating of white gold gives it the upper hand with shine when comparing white gold to platinum. White gold is often shinier due to its unique plating.
What is platinum patina?
Over time, small scratches can form on jewelry as a result of regular wear. On platinum jewelry, this becomes a subtle change in appearance known as patina. It can look like a softer appearance in the metal or even small scratches on the surface. Luckily, polishing and expert cleaning can help address some patina on platinum.
Is platinum more hypoallergenic than white gold?
Yes, platinum is a hypoallergenic metal that’s popular for people with sensitive skin.
Which is less expensive for platinum vs. white gold?
Due to its rarity, platinum costs more than white gold.
Choosing Between White Gold and Platinum
When it comes to white gold vs. platinum, the best choice is one that fits your budget and style. From engagement rings to earrings, both metals are durable and luxurious choices for every occasion.
