When we think of gold, yellow colored jewelry appears in our heads. But does gold have a single colored appearance? Well! White gold is popular these days, with its unique silvery-white appearance that resembles platinum. But what white gold exactly is? Whether you are looking for white gold rings, or chains, etc, let’s see this detailed guide, along with its pros and cons, in this blog.
Understanding White Gold
White gold, just like its name suggests, is white in its appearance. Unlike pure gold and other metals, it is not naturally available in the world. But what is it then? Well! In simple terms, it is an alloy of gold, which means it is mixed with other metals such as silver, palladium, etc.
How is White Gold Made?
The white gold is made in two steps: alloying and plating. Here is how white gold is made:
Step 1: Alloying
- The first step is to melt down the pure gold, also known as yellow gold (or 24k gold), with the metal alloy.
- There is no exact ratio of gold and other metals, as it depends on the size and shape of the white gold. It can be 75% gold or 25% other metals, or the percentage of gold can be even less in some variations.
- When these are mixed, the whitish color of the gold appears.
- The melted metal is then poured into a mold to cool down.
- Once done, this white gold is then molded into the desired shape of the jewelry.
Step 2: Plating
- After the white gold has taken its desired shape, it then goes through the second step, which is rhodium plating.
- Rhodium helps cover any remaining yellowish or greyish spots on the white gold, giving it a brilliant, chrome-white appearance.
How To Take Care of the White Gold Jewelry?
If you are already using white gold jewelry, you might have noticed that, with time, it starts looking yellow. Wondering why? The rhodium plating wears off with time and reveals the tones of gold under it. Here are some tips you need to know for long-term use of the white gold jewelry:
- Keep your jewelry clean. Wipe it down with a clean towel after removing.
- Avoid storing your jewelry anywhere; instead, keep it inside a padded jewelry box that prevents direct sunlight and heat.
- You can also clean your jewelry with a soft brush and mild soap.
- Visit professionals and get your jewelry cleaned (if recommended).
All these steps will ensure long-term usage of your jewelry.
Advantages and Disadvantages of White Gold
The following are the advantages and disadvantages of white gold:
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| The appearance of the white gold goes with the variety of styles and can be paired with different gemstones. | The white gold demands high maintenance and care, or else it will appear yellowish. |
| Unlike traditional yellow gold, white gold has a unique color that complements different color tones and outfits. | It is an amalgamation of gold with other metals, which means it is not 100% gold. |
| It has a lower price than pure gold. | People who are sensitive to other metals may have an allergic reaction. |
Platinum vs White Gold – What’s the Difference?
White gold has a similar appearance to platinum and might be difficult to differentiate. Here is what makes both of these different from each other:
| White Gold | Platinum |
| It does not exist naturally and has to go through a procedure. | Naturally occurring white metal. |
| Amalgamation of pure gold with other metals. | No amalgamation, pure metal. |
| It may appear yellow and dull over time due to the rhodium plating tearing off. | Maintains its original color over time. |
| Requires rhodium polishing. | No requirement for rhodium polishing. |
| Less expensive. | More expensive. |
| Chances of allergic reactions on sensitive skin. | No chances of allergic reactions for those with sensitive skin. |
Final Verdict
In conclusion, jewelry is an important part of your daily fashion and style. But besides this, choosing the right metal for your jewelry is important as well. The white gold is in high demand and might meet your requirements when looking for elegant daily wear or fancy jewelry. Besides this, know that the white gold price in Pakistan is less than that of platinum (as it is naturally occurring).
So next time you visit the jeweler, you will know whether you want to opt for white gold or not.
FAQs
Yes! The white gold can turn yellow due to rhodium plating that wears off with time.
Yes! The white gold is real, but it is mixed with other white metals such as silver and more.
Yellow gold is the gold present in its purest form, without alloying with other metals, and is more valuable.
The rhodium plating on white gold can wear off with time, allowing yellow gold to appear prominently.
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