What is white gold?

White gold is commonly used in jewelry, especially for engagement and wedding rings, due to its versatility and elegant appearance. It is not a standalone element but rather an alloy. This means it is a mixture of gold with various white metals such as nickel, silver, or palladium. This combination gives white gold its unique color and luster, distinctly different from yellow gold. To enhance its whiteness and brightness, white gold is often coated with a layer of rhodium, a metal from the platinum group.

How is white gold made?

White gold is primarily made from pure gold. This pure gold is mixed with white metals to make the gold harder and to change its color. The exact composition of the mixture can vary depending on the desired properties, such as hardness and color. The metals are melted together to form a homogeneous mass, which is then cast into the desired shape. In many cases, the surface is further coated with a layer of rhodium. This not only provides an extra beautiful white shine but also creates a protective layer against wear and scratches.

White gold versus yellow gold and rose gold

White gold, yellow gold, and rose gold are all variations of gold that differ in their composition and appearance. Yellow gold is the traditional form of gold, characterized by its rich, warm color. It is an alloy of gold mixed with copper and silver. Rose gold has a distinctive pinkish hue achieved by mixing gold with copper. The more copper present in the alloy, the redder the tint of the rose gold. Each type of gold possesses unique properties and charm, influencing choices based on personal preference and the specific style of the jewelry piece.

Durability and maintenance of white gold

White gold is highly resistant to wear and can last a long time, but it requires some maintenance to preserve its shine. The layer of rhodium applied for protection will naturally wear off over time, especially with daily wear of the white gold jewelry. It is therefore recommended to have white gold jewelry re-plated with rhodium every 12 to 24 months.
 
In addition to re-plating, white gold can be cleaned using mild soap solutions and a soft, non-abrasive cloth. It's important to avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive brushes to prevent damage to the rhodium layer. Regular professional maintenance helps keep white gold jewelry in top condition.

Buying white gold at a good price

Several factors influence the price of white gold. One of the most significant factors is the price of pure gold, which fluctuates on the global market. The costs of the white metals used in the alloy, such as nickel or palladium, also play a role. Rhodium, being a relatively expensive metal, further increases costs when used as a finishing layer. The price is also influenced by the percentage of pure gold in the alloy. A higher karat equals a higher price. Other factors that may affect the price of white gold jewelry include craftsmanship, brand name, and the complexity of the design. When purchasing white gold jewelry, it's important to consider these factors to ensure you're getting a fair price relative to the quality and characteristics of the piece.

Disclaimer: The Silver Mountain does not provide investment advice, and this article should not be considered as such. Past performance is not indicative of future results.