White Gold vs. Platinum: Key Differences, Similarities, and Which One to Choose
When you are buying an engagement ring, the emphasis is on deciding between the best natural diamond and a lab-grown diamond. But selecting the right metal and the shade is equally important and can affect your decision on the shape that you will use as your centre stone. If you’re attracted by an elegant, contemporary style, you’re probably deciding between platinum vs white gold. What’s the difference between these two? And which is better for you?
Learn more about the differences between platinum and white gold and discover the right metal for setting your ring.
Platinum vs White Gold: The Essentials
The major distinction between platinum and white gold is in their appearance, purity, and prices. Platinum is pure and whiter than white gold, which is an alloy, typically blended with palladium or zinc. Platinum is a great choice for people with sensitive skin. But white gold is a great choice for the majority of people who wear it.
White gold acquires its silvery sheen due to plating with rhodium, since the natural colour of gold is yellow. As time passes, the rhodium layer will wear off and require dipping again to keep its lustrous shine. Platinum, on the other hand, can maintain its hue without plating, forming an organic patina that gives it personality.
Due to its rarity and purity, platinum is more expensive than white gold. However, for many, its properties, its long-lasting quality and durability, as well as its hypoallergenic characteristic, make it worth the investment.
14k White Gold
In the case of 14k white gold and platinum, both metals have different uses. White gold 14k is made up of 14 parts of gold and 10 parts of alloy. This mix gives it a greater durability than other gold grades and still has a classy appearance.
At Nature Sparkle, we recommend 14k white gold for everyday wear jewelry such as necklaces, earrings or fashion rings. But when it comes down to important jewelry, such as engagement rings or wedding bands, platinum vs. white gold is a more thoughtful argument. The strength of platinum and its weight make it the perfect choice for wear over time, whereas white gold in 14k is an affordable, lighter alternative.
If you’re seeking strength in everyday wearability, as well as low-cost, 14k white Gold is an ideal option. If you’re looking for the highest clarity and lustre, platinum might be the best choice.
The Basilia 1.5 CT Round in 14K White Gold
Platinum
In the case of platinum and white gold for engagement rings, there’s no universally applicable answer. It’s all about your personal preferences, budget and style preferences.
Both metals are stunning in their ability to showcase the colourless and near colourless diamonds. The neutral shades of the metals let diamonds of the range of D-H colours show off and shine without interference. If you’re looking for a ring with low maintenance that keeps its white lustre with no maintenance, platinum is the best choice. If you’re looking for a ring that is affordable and you’re prepared to re-dip your ring as time goes by, white gold provides exceptional value.
The Theresa 1 CT Emerald in Platinum
Should You Choose a White Gold Ring?
White gold is adored for its modern, clean appearance and its versatility. It is a great match for cool skin tones and is usually less expensive than platinum, which makes it the preferred choice for couples who want to put more money into their diamond.
White gold is the right choice for you if
- You prefer a lighter setting
- You’re working with a budget
- You’ll love its bright silvery shine
Should You Choose a Platinum Ring?
Platinum represents the pinnacle of elegant luxury that is not overstated. Its elegant, cool hue, natural brilliance, and incredible durability make it a worthy option. Due to its hypoallergenic qualities, platinum is also suitable for people with sensitive skin.
You may prefer platinum if:
- You’re looking for a durable, high-quality metal
- You’re buying a colourless or near-colourless diamond
- You suffer from metal allergies or sensitivities to metals.
Platinum’s power and rarity make it the ideal partner for the most important moments in life.
Which Diamonds are the best to pair with each Metal?
Diamonds that are colourless (D-F) and some close-to-colourless stones (G-H) look stunning with both platinum and white gold settings. The white tones of their diamonds don’t impart any yellow hues on your diamond, while keeping the sparkle of the centre stone.
If you’re looking to buy a diamond for a reasonable price, you should consider a stunning cut such as Round or Radiant to hide inclusions. This will allow you to concentrate more on the diamond’s colour and still enjoy a great sparkle.
Conclusion
If you’re attracted by the timeless beauty of platinum or prefer the modern edges of white gold, choosing the right metal comes down to your priorities—be it budget, aesthetics, or wearability. With this guide on the difference between platinum and white gold. We hope that you’re able to select the one that best represents the love story you have shared with your partner.