What is white gold?
White gold is a metal used in engagement rings. Pure gold is combined with alloy metals which have a silvery colour in nature to produce a faux platinum effect. The most common examples of these kinds of metals are palladium, zinc, and nickel.
Aside from the aesthetic appeal, an additional benefit of adding these metals is a greater level of strength and durability. As a soft metal, gold is susceptible to bending out of shape and being dented. By combining it with zinc, palladium or any other kind of alloy, a ring will be preserved for longer.
Often, white gold will also be coated in a layer of rhodium. This metal is from the same family as platinum and adds a luxurious white sheen to the jewellery or ring. It will also add an additional level of protection.
How much is a white gold engagement ring?
The value of a white gold ring will depend on how many karats are used in construction. Unlike carats, which measure the weight of gold, karats are the unit used to determine the percentage of pure gold in an engagement ring.
The level of pure gold contained in a ring will greatly determine the final price. 24-karat is the highest value (100% gold), while 18-karat (75%) and 14-karat (58%) have a lower price.
Market fluctuations also have to be taken into account when valuing white gold engagement rings. Changing valuations will impact the amount someone can expect to pay for their ring.
How common are white gold engagement rings?
White gold rings are a favoured option, owing to the timeless look they offer wearers.
Because of its shade, white gold is the perfect complement to diamond. For this reason, it has become a staple of engagement rings.
How to clean white gold rings?
You’ll naturally want to keep your ring in as good condition as possible. While any ring you purchase from 77 Diamonds will have longevity, it’s always sensible to maintain your jewellery.
To clean a white gold ring at home, we recommend the following method:
- Fill a bowl with warm water. Add a teaspoon of washing up liquid.
- Soak the ring for 2-5 minutes.
- Brush the diamond with a soft toothbrush.
- Fill a new bowl with clean water and rinse the ring. Never do this over the sink.
- Dry the ring with a paper towel.
Remember, our rings are designed to be worn every day. However, they do need to be removed for activities such as cooking, cleaning or gardening. We also recommend you remove your jewellery when sleeping and showering.
Is white gold worth more than yellow gold?
This depends on the metal used as an alloy as well as on the number of karats the ring holds. Keep in mind, white gold is valued by its percentage of pure gold.
As such, an 18-karat ring containing 75% pure gold will be more valuable than a 14-karat ring, which sits at 58%. The same is true of yellow gold.
This means comparisons between equally-sized karat rings need to be made based on the value of the secondary metal.
