What Is the Difference Between White Gold & Platinum Rings?

You know you don't want a yellow gold setting for your ring, but you can't decide between white gold and platinum. Learning the characteristics of each metal may help you choose.

Similarities

Both rings have a brilliant shine and a white tone.

Cost

Platinum rings cost twice as much as white gold rings.

Composition

Rings typically called white gold are not 100 percent white gold. They are yellow gold mixed with nickel and zinc, with a coating of white gold and rhodium plating. The white gold gives the ring its shine and makes it look similar to platinum. Platinum is a white metal. Most platinum jewelry is 95 percent platinum.

Durability

A white gold ring will need to be redipped every 12 to 18 months to maintain its shine and because the yellow gold underneath will eventually show through. A platinum ring is much more durable and will only need cleaning and buffing to remove any scratches. A platinum ring is much heavier than a white gold ring.

Special Feature

Platinum, unlike gold, is hypoallergenic.