White Gold: What It Is

So, what exactly is white gold? Is it made of gold? White gold, according to the United States Geological Society, always contains genuine yellow gold as well as other metals such as nickel and palladium. White gold is available in karats ranging from 10 to 22. Because most metals are grey and gold is naturally yellow, metal mixtures lighten the yellow. The resulting white gold alloy is usually yellowish in color.

Is White Gold Real Gold?

According to the USGS, white gold is mostly made of gold with other metals mixed in to give it its white color. For example, 18-karat white gold contains 75% pure gold and 25% other metals.

Rhodium Plating

Many jewelers use rhodium plating on white gold to make it sparkle. Rhodium plating wears off over time and must be replaced every few years. You can get the jewelry redipped to replace the rhodium plating.

Precise White Gold

One exception exists. Precise White Gold, developed by W.R. Cobb and Company, is a patented white gold that does not require rhodium plating. According to the company, Precise White Gold jewelry never loses its original color and shine. Precise White Gold products do not contain nickel either.

Types of White Gold Jewelry

Because white gold is so popular, you can find almost any jewelry design. Pendants, necklaces, rings, earrings, and bracelets are available in both ornate and simple elegant styles. Wedding bands, anniversary bands, and engagement rings are all available in white gold. This distinct metal also allows you to purchase two-tone gold jewelry. Some popular jewelry items you might come across include:

White gold chains
Lockets
Bangles
Dangle earrings
Heart pendants

White Gold and Nickel Allergies

Many people are surprised to learn that white gold can contain nickel. Nickel is a common ingredient in white gold jewelry in the United States. Nickel, on the other hand, is restricted for use in jewelry in Europe due to the high prevalence of nickel allergies. In white gold, jewelers use palladium instead of nickel. People who are allergic to nickel may be concerned about the possible nickel content. Fortunately, some jewelers inform customers whether or not a piece of white gold jewelry contains nickel. If you have a nickel allergy, ask about the nickel content before purchasing any jewelry.

How to Care for White Gold

White gold jewelry, for example, requires a special touch. Learn the ins and outs of properly cleaning and storing white gold.

Cleaning White Gold

When it comes to cleaning white gold jewelry, less is more. As a result, take a mild soap and make a soap and water mixture. To avoid minerals and chlorine, choose distilled water over tap water.

Dip a cloth in the mixture and wipe down the jewelry.
Use a cotton swab or cotton ball to get any tiny crevices.
Rinse and wipe down with a lint-free cloth.

Allow simple metal bands or jewelry to soak in the mixture for 5-20 minutes.

Storing White Gold

Storing your white gold is also important for preserving its luster. White gold should be kept in its own compartment in a jewelry box. Additionally, ensure that the box or container is stored in a dry location. Other care suggestions include:

Wipe jewelry free of lotions or perfumes before storing.
Wrap individual pieces before storing them to avoid scratching.
Remove white gold jewelry before swimming.

History of White Gold

White gold was first commercially available around 1912 and became popular around 1920. Platinum remained the most popular precious metal for jewelry settings. Many people, however, could not afford genuine platinum jewelry. White gold was introduced as a more cost-effective alternative to platinum. White gold is so similar to platinum that it is difficult to tell the difference.

White gold jewelry has experienced highs and lows in popularity over the years. It resurfaced in the 1990s as a popular material for all types of jewelry, including engagement rings. It is still a popular choice for engagement and wedding jewelry today.

White Gold vs. Platinum

Since white gold came about as a cheaper alternative to platinum, it can be important to know the difference between them.

Price: White gold is generally cheaper than platinum.
Allergies: Platinum is hypoallergenic, while white gold might have nickel.
Durability: Platinum is more durable since the rhodium can wear off white gold jewelry.
Weight: Platinum is denser and heavier than white gold.

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