Rose Gold vs White Gold

When it comes to choosing the perfect piece of jewelry, gold is always a timeless and classic choice. But with so many different colors and karats of gold to choose from, how do you decide which one is right for you?

If you’re stuck between two of the most popular choices – rose gold vs. white gold – we’re here to help you make the best decision for your needs. Keep reading to learn more about the key differences between rose gold and white gold and the pros and cons of each.

Let's start with the basics. What is rose gold, exactly? This metal, also known as pink gold or red gold, is misleading--it isn't 100% gold.

The metal known as rose gold is a gold-copper alloy, meaning it combines the two metals. The more copper the alloy contains, the redder it will look—true rose gold contains 75 percent gold, 22.25 percent copper, and a small amount of silver.

Next, what is white gold? White gold is usually an alloy containing about 75% gold and 25% nickel and zinc.

The nickel content gives white gold its color and hardness but can also make it more prone to tarnishing. Zinc is often used in small quantities because it strengthens the gold without making it brittle. Like platinum, white gold is usually plated with rhodium to give it a bright luster.

The characteristic hue of rose gold comes from the high percentage of copper in the alloy. The more copper present, the deeper the red color will be. Rose gold can range from a pale pink to a deep reddish hue.

In contrast, white gold gets its color from the nickel and zinc in the alloy. The more nickel present, the whiter the gold will be. White gold can range in color from a pale white to a yellowish hue.

Both rose gold and white gold are quite durable when it comes to durability. However, white gold is slightly more durable than rose gold because it contains more nickel and palladium, making it more resistant to scratches and dents. Meanwhile, rose gold is more likely to show wear and tear over time.

Yes, it is possible to be allergic to rose gold. While the allergy itself is not that common, it can cause various symptoms, including itchiness, redness, and swelling. So if you think you may be allergic to rose gold, it is important to see a doctor so they can properly diagnose and treat your condition.

The vast majority of people allergic to rose gold are allergic to one of the metals used to make the alloy. The most common culprits are nickel and copper, although other metals such as cobalt can also cause allergies.

If you are allergic to one of these metals, you will likely react to rose gold. Symptoms can range from mild ( itchiness, redness) to severe (swelling, difficulty breathing). If you experience any reaction, it is important to see a doctor so they can properly diagnose and treat your condition.

Like rose gold, white gold may contain trace amounts of nickel. However, the amount of nickel is usually low enough that it does not cause an allergic reaction. If you have a known allergy to nickel, you should check with your jeweler to see if the white gold they are using contains nickel.

Let's say you have a pair of 10k rose gold hoops. Yes, after a few years of wear, they will change in color slightly – with their appearance turning darker and somewhat redder in color. But this is because, over the years, the copper within the alloy can turn darker. These 10k rose gold hoops may need to be re-dipped by a professional plater, but this is a relatively inexpensive and fast process.

Lets say you have a necklace in white gold; at some point, the rhodium plating will wear off over time. This means that you will end up with a piece that is more likely to turn yellowish in color. Replating is necessary to bring back your white gold's shining luster. Of course, you can always rely on a reputable jeweler to do this job for you, which will cost about no more than $100.

So, which is better when it comes down to rose gold vs. white gold? It really depends on your own personal preferences. If you're looking for a metal that is less likely to cause an allergic reaction, rose gold may be better. However, if you're looking for a metal with a brighter appearance, white gold may be a better option.