If you’re looking for a cool-toned metal for your engagement ring settings and bands, white gold and platinum are both good options. Both have a bright, silvery white shine that pairs well with white diamonds and other gemstones. However, there are a few key differences between these metals that are good to know when planning your custom engagement ring. Whether you’re wondering which is best for your lifestyle or which option suits your budget, we’ve put together a list of differences to show you how these metals compare.
Choosing Between White Gold and Platinum Engagement Rings
The metal used in your engagement ring is every bit as important as the stone. As this is a ring you will wear forever, 24-hours a day, you want a ring that has a durable band and setting so that the stones sit safely on the ring.
Which is the best metal for your ring? Keep reading to find out how white gold and platinum compare, to see which is the right option.
Metal
Platinum is a high-purity metal. White gold, on the other hand, is made of gold containing mixed metal alloys such as palladium, silver, or nickel. This gives it its cool, white tone. When it’s freshly plated, it has a much brighter colour. When plating wears, it begins to show warmer undertones.
As white gold contains nickel, there is a chance of sensitivity for those who have a skin reaction to nickel. Platinum is known for being a hypoallergenic metal, which means that those with the most sensitive skin can wear their ring without any risk of reaction.
Colour
Both of these metals have cool tones, making them ideal in a wide variety of ring styles. These metals look beautiful with white diamonds. They also look elegant with coloured diamonds, precious gemstones, and various other diamond alternatives. If you’re looking for something that will always be timeless and classic, a cool-toned metal is the perfect choice.
The biggest difference between these two metals in terms of colour is the brightness. White gold is bright, silvery white when plated. Platinum stays a lustrous silvery-white. A lower-carat white gold ring will have grey undertones or may even start to look closer to yellow gold over time. Platinum will never lose its brilliant colour. The best way to ensure that your chosen metal always stays gleaming is to choose an experienced jeweller and ensure that you always choose 18-carat white gold.
Durability
The most important difference of all is the durability factor. Platinum is known for its extremely durable nature, keeping its shape over time as it develops a patina. Other than polishing now and then, it needs very little maintenance. White gold requires plating every few years to keep its colour.
Both are durable for daily wear. As platinum is heavy, it is a little stronger, which is good if you live an active lifestyle. White gold is still durable enough for everyday wear. It can be used for engagement and wedding rings.
Cost
Due to the pureness of platinum and the fact that it’s rarer than white gold, platinum is typically more costly. If you are looking for something closer to your price range, white gold is the perfect choice. While platinum comes at a higher cost initially, due to its rarity, it requires very little upkeep over time. As white gold requires replating every few years, the cost begins to grow. The best way to determine which option suits your budget is to consider the style of the ring, the setting, and the amount of care the metal requires.
Not sure which metal is right for your ring? At Cape Diamonds, we offer a wide range of rings in both metals. View our engagement ring collections or contact us to find out more about our custom ring design service.