Torn between white gold and platinum for an engagement ring? Learn which is right for you with Bhindi Jewelers.
When it comes to achieving that light silvery, luminescent sheen, two materials reign supreme: white gold and platinum. These most precious metals have been inspiring jewelers for decades, each providing a luxurious hue that captivates the viewer. When used alongside brilliant diamonds, they create a bright and beautiful display that captures the very essence of elegance and sophistication. While their appearance is quite similar, they do maintain a number of fundamental differences.
The Color
These two metals have a nearly identical whitish sheen. White gold and platinum both look wonderfully attractive when combined with diamonds, sapphires, and other cool-toned gemstones. This makes for an elegant, sophisticated display that exudes luxury. When used in wedding bands and engagement rings, they produce peerless radiance.
The Cost
Let's get down to platinum tacks: white gold is much cheaper than platinum. This is for several reasons. White gold is actually an alloy, not strictly gold. The actual constitution of the alloy varies, but it is usually about 75% gold and 25% nickel and zinc. Platinum, meanwhile, refers to a single element and, when used in rings, is much purer. Moreover, this element is rarer than gold.
For those who crave that color but none of the price, white gold is an excellent choice. Platinum is said to be more than 50% more expensive than white gold. However, platinum has a lot of desirable properties that may make it worth it.
The Composition
Platinum is significantly harder and more durable than white gold. Gold is a famously soft metal, while platinum is the opposite. Platinum is so useful that it was banned from civilian use during World War II to restrict usage solely to the production of military equipment. Gold, meanwhile, can't be used in jewelry without being mixed with other metals. Jewelry made of pure gold would break incredibly easily.
Platinum is usually about 95% itself and 5% other materials. Since it is so dense, it is also more secure than white gold and can ensure that any gemstones it holds are secure. For solitaires and prong settings, platinum is a perfect option.
The Conservation
White gold owes its beautiful color to rhodium plating. Unlike platinum, this plating can wear off over time. In order to maintain the white-gray hue, it will need to be taken to a jeweler to be redipped and polished every one or two years.
This maintenance costs time and money and, depending on how long it remains in the family, the maintenance costs may even exceed the upfront price difference of platinum.
Find White Gold and Platinum Bridal Jewelry at Bhindi Jewelers
Bhindi Jewelers is one of the world's pinnacles of luxury. Having served our communities and customers for decades, we have the experience and expertise you deserve. With our selection of the finest bracelets, necklaces, earrings, fashion rings, timepieces, and bridal jewelry, we have what you need to upgrade your jewelry collection. Not only do we have partnerships with many high-end designer brands, but we also offer our own line of enchanting pieces.
We have four locations total, with three in California and another in Atlanta, Georgia, each unparalleled in customer service and extensiveness of the jewelry selection. Find and visit a store near you for a luxury experience like no other.