White gold or platinum? Which is better when it comes to buying a ring? If you’re in the market for a new ring, you may have asked yourself this question; if you’ve asked this question aloud, you may have been given mixed advice. There is a difference between the two metals, and therefore it’s important that you make the right choice. Here’s some advice on the subject from a local independent jeweller:
Which metal is harder wearing?
By the very nature of where they are worn, rings are subject to a lot of wear and tear. It’s certainly true that platinum is a heavier metal than gold, and if you visit your local jewellery shop and ask to look at two rings of a similar size, one made of platinum and the other made of white gold, you will definitely be able to feel the difference in their weight, as the platinum ring will be much heavier.
However, this doesn’t mean that platinum won’t scratch, and you do still need to take care of your ring, particularly if you’re employed in a hands-on occupation. Having said that, it is still the more durable of the two metals, and as platinum is less malleable and less likely to break, platinum prongs are perfect for holding stones in place in a ring, including diamonds.
What is the colour difference?
Both white gold and platinum have a very shiny, white metal look to them. The difference between the two metals is that white gold is coated in rhodium to give it its white appearance, whereas platinum is white in appearance from the outset. The rhodium coating on a white gold ring does need to be replaced fairly regularly, but it is a simple procedure of re-dipping, which your local jeweller will easily be able to carry out for you.
I have a sensitivity to some metals. Which of the two metals would be better for my skin?
Your local jeweller will advise that some people experience a sensitivity to white gold, and therefore platinum might be a better alternative for a ring. Most white gold alloys use a nickel mix, and this is often the metal which causes the problem; platinum doesn’t tend to irritate the skin in such a way.
Give me the damage: what is the difference in price?
Although there are some advantages to platinum, it is harder to work with (as it’s less malleable) and is a purer metal. This does, therefore, mean that it can cost anywhere between 2.5 to 5 times more than white gold. Your local jeweller will be able to advise on the price difference, but if cost is important, it might be best to choose a white gold ring – and remember, gold evokes images of richness and luxury, so it shouldn’t be seen as platinum’s cheaper cousin!
Whichever metal you choose, your local independent jeweller will always be able to advise which type of ring will be best suited to you – from colour and durability, through to price – so don’t be afraid to pop along to your local jewellery shop for advice.
