White Gold Or Platinum?

At Ingle & Rhode, we make every piece to order, whether it is one of our classic engagement ring designs, or a unique item of bespoke jewellery. This means that as well as being able to source the exact conflict free diamond to match the client’s requirements, we can also make their jewellery in the metal of their choice. The most common decision that a client faces is the choice between platinum and 18ct white gold. These two metals are superficially quite similar, but there are a few key differences.

1. Density.

Platinum is one and a half times as dense as 18ct white gold, so an engagement ring made of platinum will feel heavier than the same ring made in 18ct white gold.

2. Colour.

The difference is quite subtle. Platinum is a white metal, but it has a faint grey hint to it. 18ct white gold (when coated in rhodium, which it normally is) will have a bright white sheen to it. If the jewellery isn’t coated, then it will have a slightly warmer colour.

3.Wear and Tear.

As platinum gets scuffed up over time, it loses its shine and the hint of grey becomes more obvious. It is a myth that platinum is extremely durable, both platinum and gold will require some maintenance in the long term. With a bespoke platinum engagement ring, a client might want to get it re-polished every year or eighteen months. This process is cheap and easy. In the case of white gold, the rhodium coating will be gradually damaged by contact with the client’s skin, particularly on the inside of an engagement ring, and the natural colour of the white gold will begin to emerge from beneath it. This is a slightly warmer tone. At that point, the client will need to get the engagement ring polished, and have a new rhodium coat applied. This process is also cheap and easy. The two metals will require different types of maintenance, but in neither case is it anything to worry about.

Either metal is suitable for the manufacture of top quality bespoke jewellery, the choice really comes down to personal preference.