Wedding bands are not only a symbol of love in marriage, but a lasting token to show your commitment to your partner. As such,choosing the right ring is no small feat. When considering what style you will pick, often the first port of call is to decide on the metal.Â
Although similar in appearance, the differences between a white gold and platinum finish are plenty. To help you choose between the two, this article will outline what each metal is as well as their pros and cons in order to help you decide which metal you should choose.
Â
Â
Platinum is a precious metal that is generally valued higher than gold. It is the most hypoallergenic of all metals due to its purity (being made of 95% pure platinum), and it is hailed for its lustre and durability.
Platinum is a naturally white metal that is highly resistant to tarnish, meaning it shouldn’t need re-plating, and thanks to its durability, it should last the pace without the need to be reset.
 Â
White gold is usually an alloy containing yellow gold and other metals, including sterling silver, zinc or platinum, which are mixed to give the metal its hue. This metal is shiny and makes for a valuable yet cost-effective option.Â
The carat of the metal will change with each alloy, for example 9ct white gold is usually created with 38% gold and about 62% sterling silver, while 18ct white gold is created out of 75% gold and 25% palladium. The latter is the highest carat of white gold available.
Â
While both metals have a similar white, silvery finish, there are a few differences between white gold and platinum, particularly when they are being used for an engagement ring.Â
The first are their components: each is made from a different mineral and alloy. White gold is often created using 75% pure gold and 25% other metal. Platinum jewellery is made out of 95% platinum and 5% cobalt. As white gold is a mixture of metals, it is more affordable.
One major difference is actually the colour, despite the fact they look similar. White gold gets its colour from mixing it with other metals, whereas platinum is naturally white in colour.
When it comes to cost, platinum is often more expensive. More platinum is required to create a ring, and coupled with the fact it is also rarer than gold, this contributes to the high price tag.Â
While white gold is durable enough for everyday wear, platinum needs routine polishing to maintain its smooth appearance. However platinum is a very dense metal and will not wear away and lose thickness over time, but it does tend to lose its polish and sharp edges quickly, and small dents may appear on the surface with wear.
White Gold is stronger than platinum, so some design elements may be better suited to this metal, such as hand engraving or square edges. This metal may wear away more easily as it is not as dense. Â
Â
From price point and durability to purity and shine, platinum engagement rings vs white gold engagement rings are very different. Platinum is not necessarily better than white gold, and vice versa, as each metal has its own advantages, meaning one may be more suited to you than the other.Â
Considering your lifestyle and budget will help you work out which one pairs with you best. Read on to delve into the pros and cons of these precious metals:
Platinum is an easier metal to maintain due to its purity, meaning it won’t tarnish and won’t need re-plating. This is also a more robust metal, meaning it is better for holding gemstones. For those with sensitive skin, platinum is an excellent choice as it is the most hypoallergenic of all metals used to make jewellery.Â
If you have a manual job or play sports, platinum rings may better serve you as the density makes it more durable. The metal’s low reflection point also makes the ring’s gemstones shine more.Â
However, the cons of platinum include the higher price tag and the fact the metal is more prone to dullness due to the small bruises on the surface. Although the metal won’t thin, it is more likely to bend and reshape, creating patinas. These patinas will cause it to lose the shiny finish it first had. However, to get it back to its original lustre, all you have to do is give it a simple polish.
A huge pro of white gold is that this metal is often more affordable than platinum. This metal will also stay polished longer. White gold is also a harder metal than platinum as it is an alloy that has been mixed with different metals, meaning that it is more resistant to small scratches and dents on the surface.
If you’re opting for a larger ring with a thick band or large gemstone, you may consider white gold, as the metal is lighter and won’t be as heavy to wear. This material will also have a shinier look, so it’s worth bearing that in mind when choosing.
Cons of white gold include its tendency to tarnish and discolour with time, meaning it requires a bit more maintenance. Care should be taken around household chemicals as it is often plated with rhodium to maintain their silver finish. These rings will need re-plating every two to three years, which can prove costly and ultimately more expensive in the long run, and they may also become thinner over time.Â
White gold will lose metal when it is scratched, and although it is still secure enough to hold a gemstone, platinum takes the edge.
Â
Designing an engagement ring with white gold or platinum metal? Let our specialists at GS Diamonds assist you in creating the perfect diamond ring. Shop in-store at our Sydney or Brisbane showrooms or browse our extensive collection online.Â
Here at GS Diamonds, we believe that every piece of jewellery has a story to tell, and we want to help you find the right one for you. Get in touch today for a personalised consultation with our experienced team.
