White Gold or Platinum: a guide to help you decide

When choosing fine jewellery, whether it’s an engagement ring, wedding band, or a special gift, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is the precious metal. Two of the most popular choices for white-toned jewellery are white gold and platinum. While both are luxurious and elegant, they have distinct differences that can affect price, durability, maintenance, and overall finish.

What Is White Gold?

White gold is not a pure metal but a gold alloy. It is produced by mixing pure yellow gold with white metals such as palladium or nickel. The result is a lighter coloured gold with a white hue. To enhance its brightness, white gold can be coated with a layer of rhodium, a platinum group metal.

Considerations for white gold

Durability: White gold is more prone to scratching and thinning over the years.

Cost: 9ct white gold is less expensive than platinum, making it a budget-friendly option. Whereas 18ct white gold is more expensive.

Appearance: Thanks to the rhodium plating, white gold can have a high-luster, brilliant white finish. 

Weight: Easier to wear for daily use, especially in large pieces like bracelets or layered necklaces.

Maintenance: If rhodium plated, this can wear off over time, revealing a slightly yellowish tint. Frequency of re-plating will be dependent on wear.

Allergies: Some white gold alloys contain nickel, a common allergen.

What Is Platinum?

Platinum is a naturally white precious metal and is used in a nearly pure form. For jewellery, this is typically 95%, with the remaining 5% being iridium, rhodium or ruthenium.  It’s one of the rarest and most durable metals, with a distinct silvery sheen that doesn’t fade.

Considerations for Platinum

Durability: While very durable, platinum does scratch. However, it doesn’t lose metal in the process—scratches are more like a displacement than loss.

Extremely Durable: Platinum is dense and strong, ideal for holding diamonds securely and withstanding daily wear.

Hypoallergenic: Pure platinum contains no allergens, making it perfect for sensitive skin.

No Fading or Tarnish: Unlike white gold, platinum doesn’t lose its color over time, it naturally develops a soft patina that many consider attractive.

Quick Comparison Table

So, Which One Should You Choose?

• 9ct white gold is a great choice if you’re looking for a more affordable, lightweight, and bright white option with a modern appearance, but you are okay with occasional maintenance.
  
• Opt for platinum if you want maximum durability, hypoallergenic properties, and a timeless, low-maintenance metal that ages beautifully.

Both are excellent choices; it ultimately comes down to personal preference, lifestyle, and budget.

If you’re choosing an engagement or wedding ring, think about how often you’ll wear it and how important longevity vs. maintenance is to you. For heirloom pieces, platinum often holds its form better over time.