05 Oct White Gold vs. Platinum Engagement Rings
Seen Above: A platinum engagement ring designed by San Diego custom jeweler, Carl Blackburn, set with a 3.13 carat Old European Cut diamond and accented with Antique Single Cut Diamonds.
When creating a custom engagement ring at C. Blackburn Jewelers, choosing the right diamond or colored gemstone is one important step. But another key decision you’ll make is selecting the metal for the ring band. Two of the most popular choices are white gold and platinum.
Both metals offer their own unique advantages. So, how do you know which one is right for you? The answer depends on several factors, including your budget, lifestyle, personal style, and long-term value.
San Diego jewelry designer Carl Blackburn will be happy to go over all the factors that are important to you. But to save some time, here is an overview of the things you want to think about when comparing white gold vs platinum.
White Gold vs. Platinum: Key Differences
White gold is a classic, elegant choice created by mixing pure gold with other metals like silver, nickel, or palladium to give it a silvery-white hue. Its affordability compared to platinum makes it a popular option, especially for San Diego couples on a budget.
White gold typically consists of 75% pure gold for 18k and 58.5% for 14K, with the remaining percentage being alloyed metals that help lower the overall cost. For engagement rings, jewelers usually recommend 14k white gold for most ring designs because it is stronger than 18k, which is prone to bending in thinner engagement rings.
Be aware that white gold requires rhodium plating (also called rhodium dipping) every few years to maintain its bright appearance, as it can develop a yellowish tint over time.
Platinum, in contrast, is naturally white, rarer, and more durable. It doesn’t require plating/dipping to retain its color, making it a low-maintenance option. Platinum rings are typically 95% pure, meaning they are heavier and denser than white gold. While this adds to their durability and strength, it also increases their price and weight on the finger.
Durability and Maintenance
Durability is a key consideration, particularly with engagement rings, as they are worn every day. Platinum is more durable than white gold and highly resistant to scratches, though it can develop a soft patina over time. This patina is unique to platinum and can give the ring an attractive vintage look. Regular polishing will restore its shine if that is your preference.
White gold is durable but not as scratch-resistant as platinum. It also tends to lose its white appearance over time, requiring regular rhodium plating to maintain its shine. This is usually done every 2 – 5 years, at an average cost of $60 – $150 (depending on the design of the ring and the San Diego jeweler providing the service).
Both metals can sustain damage if subjected to extreme physical stress, but platinum’s strength makes it the more low-maintenance option in the long run. It is also better suited for securing larger diamonds or gemstones due to its density and strength.
Additional Factors to Consider
Beyond durability and cost, several other factors you might want to consider are:
Allergies
If the future bride has sensitive skin, platinum’s hypoallergenic nature makes it a safe option. White gold alloys often contain nickel, which is an allergen among a small number of women, though nickel-free options are available if you still prefer white gold.
Lifestyle
Consider your lifestyle when choosing the metal for your custom engagement ring. If you have an active job or spend a lot of time outdoors, platinum’s superior durability makes it a good fit. White gold is durable but may require more frequent care if exposed to rough conditions.
Matching with Custom Wedding Bands
If you plan to wear both an engagement ring and wedding band, choosing the same metal for both can help avoid uneven wear. A platinum wedding band can wear down a white gold ring over time, so matching metals may be preferable.
See our article about the wedding bands C. Blackburn Jewelers can make for you at: San Diego Custom Wedding Rings.
Price Comparison
Another deciding factor is cost. White gold is generally more affordable, with the price for platinum being higher. At C. Blackburn Jewelers (La Jolla), we charge double for platinum (versus 14k gold) and 50% more for platinum (versus 18k). This price difference is primarily due to a more expensive manufacturing process.
However, don’t forget to consider other factors that influence the total cost, such as the quality of the gemstone, craftsmanship, and the jeweler’s reputation. While platinum has a higher initial cost, it may require less frequent maintenance than white gold over time.
Engagement Ring Design Options
Both metals offer a wide range of ring design possibilities. White gold’s versatility allows for various finishes, such as polished, brushed, or matte, and it pairs well with many styles, from modern to vintage-inspired engagement rings.
Platinum is often chosen for more classic and timeless designs due to its durability and naturally white appearance. The metal’s strength also makes it ideal for intricate settings or securing larger diamonds and gemstones.
Pros and Cons of White Gold and Platinum
White Gold
PROS:
Affordable: White gold is typically more budget-friendly than platinum.
Versatile: Its classic look complements various ring styles and finishes.
Customizable: Can be easily polished or textured to suit personal tastes.
Easier to resize: White gold engagement rings are often simpler and cheaper to resize than platinum rings.
CONS:
Requires regular rhodium plating to maintain its bright white finish.
Prone to yellowing: Without maintenance, white gold can develop a yellowish tint over time.
Possible allergic reactions: Some white gold alloys contain nickel, a potential allergen for a small percentage of women.
Less durable: Compared to platinum, white gold is more prone to scratches and wear.
Platinum
PROS:
Exceptionally durable: Platinum engagement rings are highly resistant to scratches and wear, making it ideal for daily wear.
Hypoallergenic: A great choice for those with metal allergies.
Naturally white: Platinum maintains its color without needing plating.
Prestigious: Its rarity and density add a sense of luxury and prestige.
CONS:
Higher cost: Platinum is significantly more expensive than white gold.
Heavier: The density of platinum can make the ring feel heavier on the finger.
Limited customization: Its natural white color limits the ability to add custom finishes.
Prone to patina: Platinum develops a slight matte finish over time, which may require polishing to maintain a shiny appearance. Note that some women prefer the patina that a platinum ring develops.
Resizing: Platinum rings can be more difficult and costly to resize.
Meet with San Diego’s Custom Jeweler
Ultimately, choosing between a white gold and platinum engagement ring comes down to personal preference, lifestyle, and budget. White gold offers an affordable, elegant look with plenty of customization options, but it requires regular maintenance. Platinum is more durable, hypoallergenic, and luxurious, though it comes at a higher price and may feel heavier on the finger.
Schedule an appointment to meet with engagement ring designer Carl Blackburn today. His boutique jewelry store is located in La Jolla Village (San Diego), with plenty of convenient parking. Carl will be happy to answer any question you have about the making of a custom engagement ring, including options that help couples on a tight budget.
In addition to white gold and platinum engagement rings, Carl designs diamond rings in traditional yellow gold, as well as vintage rose gold. He also can set your ring with colored gemstones like sapphire, ruby, aquamarine, and morganite.
Call C. Blackburn Jewelers at 858-251-3006, or send Carl a text message at: 619-723-8589. You also may get started now by using the form below to share with us details about the engagement ring you would like made.
