What is the difference between white gold and Platinum?
White gold is actually yellow gold that has been alloyed (mixed) with other metals, most commonly nickel to achieve a white colour. Although it is called “white gold”, it actually has a slightly yellowish tint. A jewellery item made of white gold is often electroplated with a thin coating of Rhodium to give it a stronger white colouring. Rhodium plating does wear off over time but can always be reapplied.
Why is Platinum more expensive than white gold?
Platinum is rare. Ten tons of Platinum ore is required to process a single ounce of pure Platinum. Platinum is very dense-60% more dense than Gold. A piece of jewellery made of Platinum is considerably heavier and stronger than its counterpart in Gold, therefore more expensive due to its bulk weight alone. The most important consideration is the labor factor in producing a finely finished piece of Platinum jewelry. Due to its density and unique working properties, it requires a highly skilled craftsman to create a quality piece of Platinum jewellery. The working environment must be absolutely pristine and free of other metal contaminants-requiring the Platinumsmith to maintain a separate set of tools exclusively devoted to Platinum jewellery.
Does Platinum keep its colour?
Platinum’s natural colour is bright white when it is polished and will take on a grayish tone when it is buffed to a matte finish. It does not require rhodium plating as the metal is 95% pure.
Does Platinum scratch more than white gold?
The surface of Platinum and white gold wear very differently. While both metals will show scratches and wear over time, the surface on white gold will appear as fine scratches whereas the surface of Platinum will appear more furrowed. When white gold scratches, the metal is slowly eroding over time. With Platinum, the metal is merely displaced and the pushed to the sides without actually being removed. Both white gold and Platinum can be re-polished to their original finish but with Platinum you will not lose any metal in the process.
Are there allergies to Platinum?
Platinum is a hypoallergenic metal. Although, some people do experience allergic reactions to the nickel content in white gold.
What is the benefit to platinum?
Platinum is extremely long wearing and is very white, so it does not need to be Rhodium plated like white gold. Platinum is dense (heavy), so a Platinum ring will feel heavier than an 18kt gold ring. It is also very strong and is the best recommendation for claw set rings. Platinum’s wear and tarnish resistance characteristics are well suited for making fine jewellery.
