Bridal jewelry is available in a variety of materials. However, two exceedingly popular choices are white gold and platinum. Just like there is no one-size-fits-all engagement ring, there is no one answer to the question: which metal is better?

This decision comes down to more than just aesthetic preferences. Bridal jewelry should endure for generations to come and, as such, it is important to factor in maintenance, durability, and price along with style preference when making your decision.

WHITE GOLD

Simply put, white gold is pure gold mixed with certain metal alloys. Pure yellow gold is soft and dents easily, making it impractical for everyday wear. The addition of alloys makes white gold more resilient. Palladium, nickel, copper, and zinc are some of the metals often mixed to create white gold and provide that silvery-white finish.

PLATINUM

Maintaining an innately white tone, platinum remains in its pure form, without the use of additional alloys, and is becoming a favorable choice for bridal jewelry. To the naked eye, white gold and platinum rings are nearly identical. However, there are still many factors that distinguish the two, which can make or break your decision when it comes time to purchase.

COLOR

Authentic white gold is white or silvery-white in appearance, while cheaper white gold may look gray or even yellow. Palladium alloy along with a rhodium coat help give white gold that desirable silvery tinge.

Platinum has a similar silvery-white appearance to white gold, though it maintains this luster naturally without the need for additional alloys or special coating. Over time, the coating does fade from white gold jewelry, resulting in an exposed, yellow tinge. Consistent maintenance and additional rhodium coatings will retain white gold’s original tone.

DURABILITY

Thanks to its composition of durable alloys, 14k white gold is harder than platinum, making platinum more bendable and susceptible to scratches over time. However, the stiff nature of platinum makes it a better option for securing a gem or diamond. Both options are highly durable, especially when compared with pure yellow gold, which is the softest precious metal.

MAINTENANCE

Though more expensive at the onset, platinum requires lower maintenance than white gold. However, it is still recommended to polish your platinum jewelry annually to help it keep its brilliance.

White gold that has received rhodium plating will begin to show its natural yellow color after about six months. The silvery-white color can be maintained by having it dipped or replated every six months to a year.

SKIN SENSITIVITY

Platinum is hypoallergenic, which makes it a perfect piece for anyone who suffers from skin allergies. A platinum wedding band won’t cause a tragic rash on your wedding day.

White gold rings receive a very thin coat of rhodium, which is also hypoallergenic. However, the rhodium coating fades over time and must be reapplied regularly. Not to mention, nickel is often mixed with white gold and happens to be a common skin irritant for many people.

PRICE

Platinum, a metal rarer than gold, also costs about 40%-50% more, in part thanks to its high density. Though white gold and platinum cost about the same per gram, more metal overall is needed to create a platinum ring. As a mix of sundry durable metals, white gold is the more affordable option.

SHOP OUR WIDE SELECTION OF ELEGANT BRIDAL JEWELRY AT T-BIRD JEWELERS

At T-Bird Jewelers, we offer a vast range of dazzling bridal jewelry including engagement rings, wedding bands, necklaces, and timepieces. We have all the essentials to make you shine on your wedding day. Visit our showroom in Las Vegas so our staff can help you find the perfect ring to compliment your look. For more information, call us at 702-256-3900, or send us an e-mail at info@tbirdjewels.com.