I get quite a few questions relating to the difference between White Gold and Platinum and which one is better as a setting so I thought I would do a little blog to answer some of those questions.
The Nitty Gritty -
Most White Gold Engagement Rings are made in 18K which means it is 75% pure gold and 25% other alloy - usually palladium based instead of Nickel. Platinum is usually comprised of 95% Platinum and 5% other alloy.
Platinum is a very durable metal, it is considered a stronger setting than Gold because it is heavier and less malleable meaning your diamonds tend to be more secure in its setting. This affects more than just price. When choosing your design you should consider whether you want to wear a lighter or heavier ring. Platinum being a naturally denser metal will weigh up to twice as much as the same design in White Gold.
So lets get down to business...
White Gold - The Pros
White Gold does sit at a better price point than Platinum simply because based on weight it is lighter. It is also produced far more than Platinum and it is much easier to work and mold into shape.
White Gold - The Cons
White Gold naturally comes in an almost gun metal grey. Only after it is polished up and Rhodium plated does it get that gorgeous White gold look. Most rings depending on wear need to be re plated every 2 - 3 years. Luckily it is a relatively easy procedure.
Platinum - The Pros
It is a more secure choice in terms of setting for your diamonds. Its harder to bend and that means harder to break so it will hold up better if you are afraid of knocking. It will not need Rhodium plating. It can just be polished up again (wouldn't recommend this often however as it is more time consuming compared to Gold due to the density of the metal.)
Platinum - The Cons
Its is a heavier metal. I find most Engagement Ring settings are approx 3.00 - 4.50 grams in Gold weight. For the same setting Platinum will come in at around 6.00 - 7.00 grams easily. The extra weight also means it will cost more compared with the 18K Gold.
I also need to point out that on a basic level in terms of manufacture and materials Australia is leading the way in the Jewellery industry compared to our overseas counter parts. You're about to ask why...
The reason is that in Australia we tend manufacture engagement rings in 18K white gold or platinum. White gold is 75 parts gold, and 25 parts a mixture of palladium and silver.
In America for example they predominantly use 14K white gold which is 58.5% Gold, and the balance is mixed with nickel. Nickel is a very inexpensive metal which is prone to cracking.
Be sure if you're shopping online and comparing Australia VS American sites you keep that in mind.
So what is your choice?
- Anne Marie