Today, white gold has become quite popular because of its shine and exquisite appeal in the world of jewelleries. Having been designed as an economical substitute for platinum, white gold is now a famous and widely utilized material in engagement and wedding rings, as well as all types of other fine jewellery. This is because it has a sheen, silvery-white in colour that is ideal for use with different kinds of gems. So it is preferred greatly for trendy and modern designs.
Read more: Difference between Yellow Gold, White Gold, and Rose
Composition and Creation of White Gold
14K White Gold Ring
White gold is made through the addition of alloys to the pure gold which gives it its characteristic white color and also provides it with the necessary hardness. Other metals that are used when making white gold include nickel, palladium, and of course, silver. Alloying these metals with gold not only alters the color of the new material but also improves the strength of the material.
To make the jewellery that looks shiny, and bright white like the typical white gold, the piece is then electroplated with rhodium, a rare, silver-white metal that not only gives an excellent shine but also provides a thin surface layer that shields the gold alloy from wear.
What are the Characteristics of White Gold?
14K White Gold Diamond Ring
White gold’s look is lustrously silvery-white like platinum or silver but with a slightly warmer hue than the other metals. It is characterised by durability and strength, which makes it ideal for wear-and-tear jewellery such as rings and bracelets. In this regard, white gold is significantly more rigid and less susceptible to scratches than yellow gold or rose gold, although all gold-containing alloys must be treated carefully.
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As for the color, yellow gold stays bright and warm, rose gold has a romantic pinkish shade, and white gold is popular due to its universality and natural shade that fits any skin tone and the majority of fashion trends.
Uses of White Gold in Jewellery
This type of gold is found in most jewellery pieces such as rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings among others. It is used most commonly in engagement rings and wedding bands owing to its classic and timeless appeal. Because of its neutral color, it can be best worn with diamonds, coloured gemstones, or in any other fine jewellery design where it is intended to be all on its own.
Read More: GIVA Gold Rings | Types & Styles | Elegant & Trendy
White gold’s adaptability allows it to fit into both classic and modern jewellery trends, making it a favorite for individuals looking for a piece that can be worn with virtually any outfit or occasion.
Care and Maintenance
White gold, as we have seen is quite hard-wearing but needs some amount of care to be crafted as a unique piece of jewellery. The outer surfaces are protected by a layer of rhodium plating which if scratched off will reveal the white gold alloy having a yellowish color. Like other gold, white gold is not innately bright; to maintain its beauty, it is advised that you take the piece of jewellery back for re-plating with rhodium now and then.
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In addition, When washing white gold jewelry it is advisable to use a mild soap solution with the help of a soft brush to scrub the jewellery if it has accumulated dirt and oils. Always store them separately to prevent scratching, or get them polished to avoid scratching in the future. Do not expose your white gold pieces to chemicals such as chlorine.
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Allergies and Skin Reactions
People may develop allergic reactions to white gold depending on the content of the nickel which is usually included in the composition of the alloy. Rash, itchiness, and redness are some of the signs one is likely to exhibit as a result of a nickel allergy.
It is therefore safe to say that for sensitive-skinned people, white gold that is palladium-based or even platinum would be more appropriate. If there is an issue with white gold and allergies, remember there are nickel-free pieces available and it is wise to do a test before buying a piece of jewellery.
White Gold Vs Other Metals
While comparing white gold to platinum, silver, or other metals, there are several factors to consider:
- White Gold vs. Platinum: Platinum is a precious white metal that does not require rhodium plating of any kind. Compared to white gold it is denser, tougher, and costs more. White gold though, is lighter and cheaper than other parts of gold.
- White Gold vs. Silver: Silver is somewhat cheaper compared to white gold, however, it tarnishes easily and is much more likely to scratch. White gold can also boast its durability and can stay shiny if cleaned and treated properly.
Each of the metals possesses its strengths and shortcomings, and in many ways, it comes down to which type of material is more affordable, and what look and easy care each of the metals gives.
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Buying Guide
While buying white gold jewelry, it’s important that you know the karat value which is a measurement of the gold’s purity. 14K white gold has 58 percent of gold in it and most of the jewellery sold in today’s market is made up of 14K white gold due to its durable nature.
So, before buying the jewellery, keep these things in your mind:
- First and foremost, only deal with recognised jewellers who offer certifications for the metal and/or stones that might be used in combination with it.
- Make sure the white gold is rhodium plated as you will want to know if it is going to last or not and if there are any warranty or maintenance services for when the jewellery will need to be re-plated again.
Trends & Popularity
White gold remains a major choice in jewellery or even in bridal jewellery designs up to the present time. Engagement rings made out of white gold with lab grown diamonds are common nowadays and many celebrities have been seen wearing these rings at some of the most important events in their lives. Some of them are the white gold stackable rings, a white gold bangle, and a mixed metal white gold necklace.
In the future, white gold is also anticipated to maintain its popularity because of its classic style and appropriateness for many occasions. With more and more people moving towards clean and elegant looks, white gold shall forever have its coveted position in both traditional and trendy pieces.
GIVA’s White Jewellery Collection: Dazzle with the White Shine & Spark
GIVA belives that the main reason contributing to white gold’s popularity to this day is that jewellery made with it looks extremely beautiful. The collection is strong, and can worn at any occasion whether its a traditional celebration or an evening porty at some expensive resort. Needless to say, White Gold possesses a modern touch of elegance.
