PLATINUM METAL VS WHITE GOLD


When it comes to choosing the best metal for your jewelry, it can be difficult to decide between platinum and white gold. Both metals are beautiful and have their own unique properties, but which one is right for you?


To help you decide, we've put together a side-by-side comparison of platinum and white gold so that you can see the differences for yourself.


WHAT'S PLATINUM MADE OF?


Platinum is considered the most precious metal for jewelry. Platinum is also quite soft and malleable in its purest form, much like gold. Pure platinum is much too soft for jewelry use, so you must combine it with other base metals and alloys to make platinum tougher and more durable.


Platinum, unlike gold, is subject to more stringent rules when combining it with other metals. Platinum typically mixes with similar metals, also known as Platinum Group Metals (PGM). This group includes iridium, ruthenium, osmium, rhodium, and palladium metal. Base metals are also sometimes used in alloys. Copper and cobalt are the most common base metals.


The least amount of platinum required is 850 out of 1000 parts (85%). Although most countries have set thresholds for platinum purity, most consider anything less than 85 percent, not high-grade platinum. Similarly, according to the standard thresholds for platinum purity, if the concentration of pure platinum is less than 50%, it is not considered pure platinum.


WHAT PLATINUM IS USED FOR?


The uses for platinum metal are numerous, ranging from medicine and industrial to jewelry and chemical engineering.


IS PLATINUM GOLD OR SILVER? IS PLATINUM THE RAREST METAL?


Platinum, the rarest and most expensive of all precious metals used in jewelry, is also the most costly. Platinum is not a single metal like silver or gold but a family of metals with similar characteristics; it is not to be confused with silver or gold. Platinum metals are some of Earth's most costly and prestigious precious metals. The platinum family of metals includes platinum, palladium, iridium, osmium, rhodium, and ruthenium.


Almost every metal in the platinum family is popular for creating ornaments except osmium. In the Platinum Group Metals (PGM), platinum is the most widely used, followed by the metal palladium. In many instances, alloy metals are mixed with the platinum family to prevent tarnishing or improve PGM's strength.


IS PLATINUM THE SAME AS WHITE GOLD? IS PLATINUM CALLED WHITE GOLD?


No, platinum and white gold are not the same. Contrary to popular belief, white gold is not a completely white metal; it's a mix of metals. Gold is naturally a very saturated yellow. Jewelers must use a mix of metals (such as nickel alloys) with yellow gold to make it white. In addition, when white gold does not contain a rhodium plate, it appears grey or even yellowish until plated.


Fair amounts of palladium metal are sometimes mixed in to enhance the white gold's gleaming luster. The metal palladium is a rare and valuable mineral, making it a more costly metal than white gold, but it's highly durable and does not require a rhodium plate to change its color.


The color of platinum metal, on the other hand, is naturally white and much rarer than white gold. It is not mixed with any metal alloys and maintains its color. The color of the platinum metal will never turn and keeps its white, metallic color.


PRICE OF WHITE GOLD VS. PLATINUM


Because of superior platinum properties, the white metal is roughly 40-50% more expensive than white gold. In addition, more platinum is required to make a piece due to its density. Platinum metal is far rarer than gold, adding to its premium price tag.


If you compare the costs of both metals based on their price per gram, you won't notice much difference, but because of the different densities and how much metal is required, they are considerably distinct. For example, since white gold is a mix of durable metals, it is far less expensive and more accessible than platinum.


While this is the case, it is not the only consideration. While white gold may be less expensive to acquire at first, keep in mind that it needs replating every five to ten years to retain its hue. Platinum metal is more expensive up front, but replating is less costly in the long run.


WHITE GOLD VS. PLATINUM DURABILITY


Because platinum is the most durable and densest metal, it should be no surprise that it is also the most expensive. Platinum is about two-and-a-half to five times more expensive than white gold due to its higher density. Platinum is a more difficult material to work with because it is less malleable, so the labor cost associated with molding that piece rises.


GOLD VS. PLATINUM DENSITY


Let's begin by saying that white gold and platinum are very dense metals.


The metal platinum is a more pure metal, and it is heavier than gold. It is also more pliable and susceptible to scratching with time. Because platinum is so highly reflective, it must be polished and cleaned regularly. As a result, maintaining the beautiful look of platinum jewelry is more complicated.


WHICH IS BETTER PLATINUM OR WHITE GOLD?


There are several advantages to white gold and platinum. First, you may choose white gold material over platinum for a lower price, desire for rhodium plating jewelry, or the pure love of gold.


On the other hand, you may wind up liking platinum properties because of its purity, status, hypoallergenic qualities, and an appreciation for a patina finish.


It's also crucial to consider other costs when deciding which metal is best for you. For example, rhodium plating jewelry dazzles with a bright diamond or how a patina finish would complement an opal or another precious stone. The cost of your gemstone will also significantly influence the type of metal you select.


PLATINUM VS. WHITE GOLD: COLOR


The lustrous freshness of white gold & platinum may be challenging to distinguish. You probably won't notice much of a difference in color at first glance. One is a sparkling white, and the other one is a  silvery gray.


White gold material has a slightly whiter undertone that may look beautiful if your loved one has fair skin. With that said, these two metals are still very hard to tell apart.


PLATINUM VS. WHITE GOLD: FINISH


The metal finish is where white gold & platinum differ. Over time, white gold retains its gleaming finish. Compared to platinum, it doesn't require polishing often to maintain its bright shine.


It's worth noting that platinum develops a patina with time. This is a normal response of the metal to oxygen, and your jewelry will need cleaning if you don't like the look of a platinum patina finish. So what is a patina finish on metal? A platinum patina finish develops as a result of regular wear. It is a satiny or slightly frosted appearance. Overall, there is a slight loss of luster on platinum metal jewelry.


PLATINUM VS. WHITE GOLD: HYPOALLERGENIC PROPERTIES


Another advantage for platinum lovers is the hypoallergenic properties of platinum. It is a naturally white metal, so there's no need to combine it with nickel, which can be an allergen for certain individuals. Nickel is a component of white gold's finish, which can cause an allergic reaction in people with sensitive skin.


But rest assured that if you are rocking a pair of platinum earrings, your ears will be itch-free and allergy-free. So, if you have sensitive ears, platinum earrings are the way to go!


If a top layer of rhodium plating coats white gold, it reduces and sometimes even eliminates the contact between the nickel and one's skin. (This plating may wear off over time, resulting in a yellowish color to the metal and necessitating its replating by a jeweler, which can be costly.


PLATINUM SETTING VS. WHITE GOLD


There are a few key differences between platinum and white gold that you should be aware of before making a purchase. Platinum is a more costly metal, so a ring made with a platinum setting will typically cost more than one made with a white gold setting. Platinum is also more durable than white gold, so it may be a better choice if you're looking for a ring that will stand the test of time. Finally, platinum has a slightly different color than white gold, so it may be a better choice if you're looking for a ring with a truly unique look.


WRAPPING UP


So, what's the verdict? Which metal is better for you, white gold or the most precious metal platinum?


The answer ultimately depends on your individual preferences. For example, if you like the look of a patina finish or the hypoallergenic properties of platinum, then that may be the way to go. But white gold may be the better choice if you're looking for a lower price or greater durability.


We hope this article has helped you understand the key differences between these two popular metals. Whatever your decision, we wish you the best of luck in finding the perfect piece of jewelry in the best metal for you or your loved one!