What is White Gold: Why It's Becoming a Top Choice for Jewellery?
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White gold has become one of the most popular choices for jewellery, from engagement rings to earrings and bracelets. But what is it, and why is it gaining popularity?
This post will explore everything about white gold, including its composition, advantages, price, and how it compares to other metals like yellow gold, platinum, and silver.
We’ll also introduce Avira Diamonds’ lab-grown diamond Jewellery in White Gold, a sustainable and stunning option for modern jewellery lovers.
What is White Gold?
White gold is an alloy made by mixing yellow gold with white metals such as palladium, silver, nickel, or zinc. This combination gives it a silvery-white appearance, making it a stylish alternative to traditional yellow gold.
What is it Made Of?
White gold is typically made by combining pure gold (which is naturally yellow) with other white metals. It is then coated with rhodium to enhance its whiteness and durability.
Why is it Also Called an Alloy?
Since white gold is a blend of metals, it is classified as an alloy rather than a pure metal like gold or platinum.
Discover the benefits of wearing gold and diamonds.
Difference Between White and Yellow Gold
| Feature | White Gold | Yellow Gold |
|---|---|---|
| Colour | Silvery-white | Warm yellow |
| Composition | Gold + white metals (nickel, palladium, silver) | Gold + copper, zinc |
| Durability | More scratch-resistant (due to alloy mix) | Softer and prone to scratches |
| Maintenance | Needs rhodium plating over time | Requires polishing but no plating |
| Best For | Modern, elegant jewellery styles | Classic and vintage jewellery |
White gold offers a contemporary look, while yellow gold maintains a more traditional appeal.
Explore our comparison of white vs yellow gold.
Difference Between White Gold and Platinum
| Feature | White Gold | Platinum |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | Strong, but the rhodium plating wears off | Naturally durable, no plating needed |
| Composition | Gold + white metals | 95%+ pure platinum |
| Weight | Lighter than platinum | Heavier than white gold |
| Maintenance | Requires periodic rhodium plating | Develops patina over time |
| Cost | More affordable | More expensive |
Difference Between White Gold and Silver
| Feature | White Gold | Silver |
|---|---|---|
| Colour | Silvery-white | Bright Silver |
| Tarnish Resistance | Doesn’t tarnish but needs plating | Tarnishes over time |
| Durability | More durable | Softer and more prone to scratches |
| Cost | More expensive | Less expensive |
Silver is budget-friendly, but white gold is more durable and luxurious.
Cheapest Among White and Rose Gold and Platinum?
- Silver (cheapest)
- Yellow Gold
- Rose Gold
- White Gold
- Platinum (most expensive)
White gold is pricier than yellow or rose gold but remains more affordable than platinum.
What is 9K, 10K, 14K, 18K, and 24K White Gold?
The karat (K) value of white gold determines its purity:
| Karat | Gold Content | Durability | Common Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| 24K | 99.9% pure gold | Soft, not used for jewellery | Rarely used |
| 18K | 75% gold + 25% alloys | Softer than 14K but rich in gold | High-end jewellery |
| 14K | 58.3% gold + 41.7% alloys | A more durable, popular choice | Engagement rings, fine jewellery |
| 10K | 41.7% gold + 58.3% alloys | Very durable but has less gold content | Budget-friendly jewellery |
| 9K | 37.5% gold + 62.5% alloys | Cheapest and very durable | Common in Europe |
Better 14K or 18K White Gold?
- 14K White Gold is more durable and affordable.
- 18K White Gold has a richer gold content and premium appearance.
For daily wear, 14K is better; for luxury jewellery, 18K is preferred.
Learn the difference between carat vs karat here
Common Myths and Facts
Myth 1: White gold is a naturally white metal.
Fact: White gold is not naturally white — it's made by mixing yellow gold with white metals like palladium, nickel, or silver to give it a lighter appearance. It’s then usually plated with rhodium to give it that bright, shiny white finish.
Myth 2: White gold is the same as platinum.
Fact: They look similar, but they're totally different metals.
- White gold is an alloy and needs rhodium plating to stay bright.
- Platinum is naturally white, heavier, more durable, and more expensive.
Myth 3: White gold never needs maintenance.
Fact: Over time, the rhodium plating on white gold can wear off, especially on rings or pieces worn daily. This can make the jewelry look slightly yellowish. Many people get it replated every 1–2 years to maintain that white look.
Myth 4: White gold is more valuable than yellow gold.
Fact: The value of white and yellow gold is mostly based on the karat (like 14K or 18K), which tells you how much pure gold is in it.
The difference in price usually comes down to design, rhodium plating, and craftsmanship, not the color.
Myth 5: White gold is hypoallergenic.
Fact: Not always. If the white gold alloy contains nickel, it can cause allergic reactions in some people. If you have sensitive skin, opt for nickel-free white gold or go for platinum instead.
Myth 6: White gold will stay white forever.
Fact: As mentioned above, white gold can fade over time due to wear and the breakdown of the rhodium plating. That’s why occasional rhodium reapplication is recommended.
Myth 7: White gold looks better with all gemstones.
Fact: While white gold is very versatile and modern, gemstone color and tone can impact which metal looks best. For example:
- White gold looks stunning with diamonds, sapphires, and cool-toned stones.
- Yellow or rose gold may complement warm-toned gems like rubies or citrines better.
Disadvantages of White Gold
- Requires Rhodium Plating: Needs re-plating every few years.
- Nickel Allergies: Some alloys may cause skin irritation.
- Resale Value Lower Than Platinum: Not as valuable as platinum in resale markets.
Best White Gold Jewellery: Avira Diamonds' Lab Grown Diamond Jewellery
For those looking for ethical, affordable, and high-quality white gold jewellery, Avira Diamonds offers stunning Jewellery sets also in white gold.
Why Choose Avira Diamonds?
- Eco-friendly – No mining, sustainable production.
- Affordable Luxury – Lab-grown diamonds cost less than mined diamonds.
- Brilliant Shine – Set in premium 14K and 18K white gold.
- Durable & Elegant – Perfect for daily wear and special occasions.
Conclusion
White gold is a modern, elegant, and durable choice for jewellery. It offers the luxury of platinum at a lower cost and is stronger than yellow gold. Whether you're looking for an engagement ring, a necklace, or earrings, white gold remains a top choice for timeless jewellery.
Explore Avira Diamonds’ White Gold lab-grown diamond Jewellery for a sustainable and stunning option today!
FAQs
1. Which is better for an engagement ring: white gold or platinum?
Platinum is more durable, but white gold is more affordable and stylish.
2. Is white gold expensive?
White gold is more expensive than yellow gold but cheaper than platinum.
3. How often does white gold need rhodium plating?
Every 1-2 years, depending on wear.
4. Can white gold tarnish?
No, but it may lose its rhodium plating over time.
5. Does white gold turn yellow?
Yes, after years of wear, as the rhodium plating fades. Replating restores its whiteness.
6. Is white gold more expensive than yellow gold?
White gold is slightly more expensive than yellow gold due to the rhodium plating and additional metal alloys used in its composition.
7. Does white gold have resale value?
Yes, white gold has resale value, but it depends on the gold content and market prices. Higher-karat white gold has a better resale value.
8. Is white gold real gold?
Yes, it’s real gold mixed with other metals like nickel or palladium for a white color.
9. Is white gold more expensive than gold?
It can be slightly more expensive due to added metals and rhodium plating.
10. Is lithium called white gold?
Yes, lithium is often called "white gold" because of its high value in tech and batteries.
11. Should you buy gold or white gold?
Choose gold for tradition and value or white gold for a modern, sleek look.
12. Is White Gold Dipped in Rhodium?
Yes, white gold is coated with rhodium to enhance its shine and durability.
13. What is White Gold Vermeil?
White gold vermeil refers to gold-plated silver, not actual white gold.