Platinum Engagement Ring or White Gold Engagement Ring? Let's Look At The Differences
Posted: Wednesday, November 07, 2007
by Tom Mason
http://www.engagementrings101.com
What are the differences between white gold and platinum? This is one of the most frequent questions I get in my inbox. If you are shopping for an engagement ring and know that your special lady doesn't want yellow gold, then you are left choosing between platinum and white gold. There are some major differences between the two metal, so let's have a closer look.
White gold actually has a tinge of yellow to it (especially if mixed with nickel) or a greyish tinge (often found is mixed with palladium). When the white gold is plated with rhodium, it gets a much crisper and whiter appearance. Rhodium has properties somewhat similar to platinum, however this plating will wear off. You will need to get the white gold replated about every 12-24 months. There are some people who don't mind the natural look of white gold so they never need to get it replated, however most people prefer the whiter look. This is very inexpensive, but the ring will be out of your hands for at least a few days. Platinum gets it fame from being the most durable metal out there. Platinum is very resistant to damage - it will literally last a lifetime. It is also a dense metal which means it is heavier than white gold.
Unlike white gold, Platinum does not need to be plated with anything. You will never have to take it in for replating. It does requite polishing from time to time though, otherwise it can get a "matte" or somewhat dull look to it. Some people also feel platinum starts to get a greyish look until is is polished. Platinum is gonna cost you about three times as much as white gold. It is a rarer metal which is why you can expect to fork out more cash for it. I don't like to recommend one over the other, as it can depend on the person. In terms of looks, I think they are equally beautiful. You have to look at what is important to you.
If money is tight, stick with white gold. You will have to take it in every now and then for replating, but it really isn't that much of a bother. And don't automatically think that because it is cheaper that it isn't as "good" as platinum. It's a beautiful metal - just not quite as strong as platinum. If you want a ring that is truly going to last a lifetime(maybe you want to pass it down to future generations) I suggest going with platinum. You also won't have to worry about taking it in as often as white gold which some people find to be a huge upside.
It is also a good idea to go and have a look at the two metals in person. Can you spot any difference? If so, do you prefer the look of one over the other? Of course you will also have to find the most important part of your ring - the diamond! I can save you a lot of money on that part of the ring - just go read the guide I put together on buying a diamond. You can find it on my website.
Have fun with your engagement - my best to you and your special someone!
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Top-level comments on this article: (3 total)hi there, I have to have my rings re plated 3-4 times a year if I want them looking nice all of the time, it really seems to wear off quickly and I have been told it could be down to the acid levels in my skin - is that right? I have been to two different jewellers to get it done and its the same with both!High acid levels interfering with precious metals is a common phenomena.I have the same problem.
The engagement ring I got for my girlfriend is platinum. I did a lot of research when it came to the different metals to have the ring set in, but after reading that platinum is up to 95% pure I knew it would be worth it. I also read that its hypoallergenic, my girlfriend has sensitive skin so since the ring won't cause any allergies she'll be able to wear it without worrying. Even though Platinum is more expensive than other metals, you end up getting a lot more precious metal for your money. While doing research I googled Engagement Guide, and I found a site made it really simple for me to chose the ring that would be perfect.
I just found the perfect platinum band. I was given a beautiful diamond from my grandmother's engagement ring and searched high and low to find a delicate and detailed band. The original setting was platinum and although it was flawless after 55 years (I was impressed), I knew my girlfriend's taste was a little different. Knowing I wanted platinum from the start, both my research online and talking with trusted friends (one's with style :-), of course), affirmed I was making the right choice. Like Gabe mentioned above, although a bit more expensive, the qualities of platinum outweigh those of any other metal. I found engagement guides online to be most helpful.Just to note a few of the qualities found in platinum aside from it's purity and that it's hypoallergenic, while most "white" metals must be re-plated/dipped every year (if not more), platinum is naturally white. Also, while most metals when scratched lose portions of the metal, with platinum scratched are only on the surface and the ring when polished, will look brand new.I personally really liked the feel and subtle (yet sharp) look of platinum for my wedding ring, as I assume we'll have matching bands.
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