Platinum Versus White Gold: What's the Difference?

 

Engagement rings and wedding bands are not only brilliant symbols of your marriage, but they're also elegant statement pieces and lasting mementos that you and your partner can show off to the world. So, when it comes to choosing a ring that will personify you and your spouse's love, careful thought and consideration should be placed on the design and style of the piece you'd like to wear.

As far as color goes, while selecting a hue is strictly a personal choice, if you prefer white metals, there are two popular options that typically work best for both engagement and wedding rings: white gold and platinum. Interested in learning which metal is right for you?

Ahead, we spoke with several jewelry experts to help explain the differences between platinum and white gold. Here's everything you need to know.

What Is Platinum?

Platinum is a precious metal that is commonly known for its luster, stunning appearance, and superior durability. According to Samira Baraki, CEO and founder of MIRACO, it is also "a naturally white metal that doesn’t require any mixtures to create its color."

What Is White Gold?

Baraki explains that "white gold is known as an alloy," which means that gold (a yellow metal) and at least one other white metal—like palladium, nickel, zinc, copper, or silver—are mixed together to create white gold's hue. While gold is also shiny and less dull than other metals, and is a valuable, yet cost-effective, option for those purchasing jewelry.

The Differences Between Platinum and White Gold

There are several characteristics that differentiate platinum from white gold. For starters, Baraki explains that white gold is lighter and less dense than platinum, "giving it a more easy and wearable feel." The other differences are seen in the color, price, durability, and popularity of each metal, as highlighted below.

Color

White gold has been a hot trend for decades, but contrary to popular belief, white gold is not a pure white metal. “Gold is yellow. To make it white, jewelers have to mix gold with other metals: alloys. Cheap white gold looks grey, sometimes even yellow, and it receives a rhodium plating to be bright white,” Nicolas Tranchant, CEO of Vivalatina, tells Brides.

Platinum, on the other hand, is naturally white in color, is rarer than white gold, and is hypoallergenic (an ideal choice for those will any metal allergies or sensitivities). “Platinum will never turn and keeps its white, metallic color,” adds Loryn Elizabeth, founder of LE Fine Jewelry.

Price

As Elizabeth puts it, “Platinum is roughly 40 to 50 percent more expensive than white gold because more platinum is required to make a piece due to its density. It is rarer than gold, which also contributes to its high price tag." She continues, “Since white gold is a mixture of durable metals, it is much lower in price and more affordable than platinum."

However, it’s not all about up-front costs. While white gold may be more affordable to buy at first, keep in mind that it needs to be replated every five to 10 years to keep its color. So while platinum may seem more expensive at first, it's "less costly for maintenance," Elizabeth shares.

Durability

"Generally speaking, platinum is more durable because of its heavier weight and density," explains Baraki. "White gold is a bit more fragile, but it’s really dependent on the coating and finish."

With all this in mind, both metals can be used to create engagement rings and wedding bands and be worn every day for the rest of your life. "White gold is durable enough for everyday wear," Elizabeth shares, while also adding that “Platinum will require routine polishing and cleaning to maintain its smooth appearance."

Popularity

While trends come and go, there’s one pure white metal that’s always at the top of the charts: Platinum. “[This metal] always tends to be more popular than white gold for engagement rings. It is a rarer metal and more durable,” Suzanne Sachs, owner of Vintage Diamond Ring, reveals. “There is an undeniable elegance associated with a platinum engagement ring.”

Nonetheless, there isn't much of a difference in style between platinum and white gold, though jewelers usually prefer to work with platinum since it is a more malleable metal.

Shopping Considerations

Ready to pick out a gorgeous ring for yourself or someone special? Before you begin shopping, take a look at three expect-backed tips that will help you make the right decision. 

Find the right jeweler. 

“Work with an honest jeweler who can steer you in the right direction. It is a huge decision that is incredibly exciting. To anyone who is currently buying: be patient, stick to your budget, and have fun!” advises Elizabeth.

Choose platinum if you have sensitive skin.

If you have sensitive skin, you might want to choose platinum over white gold. “Some people have a nickel allergy, [and nickel] is part of the makeup of white gold,” says Sachs. “If considering white gold, make sure whoever is wearing the ring has no allergies to nickel.”  

Consider matching metals.

While it’s not a hard and fast rule, here’s a simple way to ensure your ring and band combination always looks effortlessly coordinated: “I would advise keeping your engagement ring and wedding band the same metal if possible,” says Sachs. However, the look you go for—mixing or matching—will depend on your own personal style.