For an engagement ring or white wedding bands, two metals are on offer: white gold and platinum. At first glance, they look very much alike. Yet they differ in weight and in price, and they do not age in the same way. Here is what you need to know to choose.
18-carat white gold
18-carat white gold contains 75% pure gold, alloyed with other metals that give it its pale tint. To achieve a very bright white, it is generally coated with a thin layer of rhodium. Over time, this rhodium plating wears slightly and the natural, somewhat warmer tint of the gold may reappear. Fresh rhodium plating restores its full brilliance: it is simple maintenance, which we carry out in our workshop.
Platinum
The platinum used in fine jewellery is a very pure, naturally white metal: it needs no rhodium plating. It is denser than gold, so a platinum ring feels noticeably heavier in the hand. With wear, it develops a patina and takes on a satin finish that many people appreciate, and it can be re-polished. It is also a more expensive metal than gold.
The differences at a glance
- Colour: bright white thanks to rhodium plating for white gold, natural white for platinum.
- Maintenance: occasional rhodium plating for white gold, simple polishing for platinum.
- Weight: platinum is considerably heavier.
- Price: platinum is more expensive for the same design.
- Sensitive skin: platinum is often recommended for people who react to certain alloys.
Matching the engagement ring and wedding bands
The wedding band is often worn right against the engagement ring. Two rings in the same metal age in the same way and keep the same tint over the years. If you are undecided, think now about the wedding bands that will follow.
What about yellow or rose gold?
18-carat yellow gold and rose gold need no rhodium plating and also show off a diamond beautifully. The choice depends mainly on your complexion and the jewellery you already wear.
Compare in our boutique
The best way is to see and try the metals side by side. Discover our engagement rings and our wedding bands, or prepare your visit on our engagement and wedding page. Wondering what budget to plan for? Read our article on engagement ring prices in Switzerland.
