Are you a jewelry lover?
Do you know what white gold is and how it differs from yellow gold? If not, read on for an in-depth look at why white gold may be the right choice of metal for your next purchase!
What Is White Gold?
White gold is a type of alloy that has been popular with jewelry makers since its introduction in 1922. It’s been dubbed “white” because it doesn’t have the distinctive green tint of traditional yellow metals like 18K or 14K yellow gold. In fact, some people love to wear white jewelry simply because it looks so much cleaner than other types! But don’t worry: there are pros and cons to wearing white gold jewelry, and this article will help you make a smart buying decision.
Why is it mixed with alloy metals?
If you’ve ever wondered why your white gold jewelry is mixed with alloy metals, you’re not alone. It can be difficult to understand the reasoning behind this decision when all you see are shiny-looking pure golden rings and necklaces! However, if you take a moment to consider it, there are plenty of reasons for this.
Firstly, pure gold on its own is a soft metal that bends easily – meaning that without any other hardening materials added in, it could be marked or bend out of shape. This makes it less suitable for jewelry as people want their rings and necklaces to last over time – they don’t want them to lose their shape or become misshapen after only a few wears.
Why is it coated in rhodium?
White gold jewelry is made from a combination of white metals such as nickel, silver, and palladium. These are mixed with pure gold to create the desired color. A metal known as rhodium is also electroplated on to give white gold its lustrous finish. Rhodium comes from the same family as platinum, which makes it even more durable than white gold, which does not contain any other metals apart from those mentioned earlier.
Why does white gold eventually look like yellow gold?
It’s a common misconception that white gold will always stay the same color. Over time, the rhodium coating on your white gold jewelry becomes worn, which can lead to a dull look rather than a shiny finish. Or sometimes even revealing the yellow gold color underneath if the item was only rhodium dipped rather than electroplated. This can happen because of wear and tear on your jewelry or if you use harsh household cleaners to clean it. It doesn’t mean there is anything wrong with your jewelry; in fact, it may be worth more now than when you first bought it!
• Is my jewelry normal? Yes! Eventually, all white gold will dull due to oxidation from contact with skin, cosmetics, or household chemicals. The more you wear the jewelry and the higher your pH level, the faster this process occurs.
• How do I stop it from changing color? To slow down the oxidation process of your jewelry (and prevent it from turning yellow), try to reduce skin contact with your white gold pieces as much as possible. Don’t wear it when you’re in the shower or pool or doing a lot of physical activity. Avoid exposure to household chemicals, too – things like chlorine, lemon juice, and bleach can speed up discoloration considerably. Or you will need it plated with a new rhodium finish at the jewelry store.
• How do I remove these stains? There is no need to be worried about the yellowing process itself, but if you want to bring back your jewelry to its original white shade, you can use baking soda mixed with a little bit of water. Apply the paste to the affected areas of your jewelry and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before rinsing with lukewarm water. Ultimately the only way to repair your item is to have the finish redone.
Is white gold real gold?
Yes! Even though it contains alloy metals, white gold is real gold. You can verify that your jewelry contains real gold by looking at its hallmark.
How do I know how much pure gold is in my white gold jewelry?
Gold is measured in karats (abbreviated K), and 9K means 37.5% pure gold while 18K means 75%. They are all a fraction. In other words 18/24=.750 as 14/24=.583 etc. The more pure the metal, the higher-quality your jewelry will be – regardless of whether it’s white or yellow. You can find this information on any piece of jewelry you buy. The bigger the overall karat weight, the larger amount of gold is present.
Conclusion – is white gold for me?
Regardless of what you choose, white gold is a stunning choice if you love silver or platinum’s neutral and classic look.
Advantages of White Gold
- White gold is more affordable than other precious metals.
- White gold is durable and scratch-resistant due to the nature of alloys.
Disadvantages of White Gold
- It will need to be electroplated from time to time, to maintain its sharp finish
In short, the last 50 years have seen a change in the increased popularity of white gold for a reason. These days, you’re more likely to see an engagement ring that is made of white gold than yellow gold. This speaks to the contemporary look that the metal offers as well as its high quality.