Does White Gold Exist? A Guide to This Precious Metal

White gold is a popular choice for engagement rings, wedding bands, and other fine jewellery. Its sleek, silvery appearance appeals to those who love the look of platinum or silver but want the value and prestige associated with gold. But it often raises the question: does white gold really exist?

The short answer is yes—but not in the way you might think. White gold is a real and valuable material, but its characteristics and composition differ significantly from yellow gold

What Is White Gold?

White gold isn’t a naturally occurring metal. Pure gold, also known as 24-karat gold, has a distinct yellow colour. To create white gold, pure gold is mixed with other metals, known as alloys, to change its colour and enhance its durability.

Typically, metals like palladium, nickel, or silver are used in the alloy to give white gold its pale, silvery hue. The exact combination of metals can vary depending on the manufacturer, but the result is a gold alloy that retains its value and beauty while offering a unique, lustrous finish.

How Is White Gold Made?

The process of creating white gold involves the following steps:

1. Alloying: Pure gold is combined with white or silvery metals like nickel, palladium, or manganese. This mixture dilutes the yellow hue of gold and creates the characteristic white colour.
2. Rhodium Plating: To achieve its bright, reflective finish, most white gold jewellery is coated with a layer of rhodium, a precious metal in the platinum family. Rhodium enhances the whiteness of the metal and provides a protective barrier against scratches and tarnish.

Without rhodium plating, white gold may have a slightly off-white or greyish tone, depending on the alloy used.

Does White Gold Contain Real Gold?

Yes! Despite its silvery appearance, white gold is made with real gold. The purity of the gold is measured in karats, just like traditional yellow or rose gold. For example:

• 18-karat white gold contains 75% pure gold and 25% alloy metals.
• 14-karat white gold contains 58.5% pure gold and 41.5% alloy metals.

The higher the karat, the more gold content—and the yellower the natural tone of the alloy before rhodium plating.

Why Choose White Gold?

White gold offers several advantages that make it a favourite for jewellery:

1. A Modern Look: White gold’s sleek, silvery tone makes it a modern alternative to yellow gold. Its neutral colour complements diamonds and coloured gemstones beautifully.
2. Durability: The added alloys make white gold stronger and more resistant to scratching than pure gold. This makes it ideal for pieces worn daily, like rings and bracelets.
3. Affordability: Compared to platinum, white gold is more affordable while offering a similar aesthetic.

Care and Maintenance of White Gold

White gold is durable, but it does require some maintenance:

• Rhodium Replating: Over time, the rhodium plating on white gold jewellery may wear away, revealing the slightly yellowish or greyish tone underneath. Replating every 1–2 years can restore its bright white appearance.
• Cleaning: Use a gentle jewellery cleaner and a soft cloth to keep white gold jewelry looking its best. Avoid harsh chemicals, which can damage the rhodium layer.

Alternatives to White Gold

If you love the look of white gold but want other options, consider these alternatives:

• Platinum: A naturally white, hypoallergenic metal that’s heavier and more expensive than white gold.
• Sterling Silver: A budget-friendly option with a similar appearance, though less durable.
• Palladium: Another member of the platinum family, offering a lightweight and naturally white option.

The Verdict: Does White Gold Exist?

Yes, white gold exists—but it’s not found in nature. Instead, it’s a stunning alloy created by blending gold with other metals and often enhanced with rhodium plating. Its versatility, beauty, and durability make it a favourite for modern jewellery designs.

If you’re considering white gold for your next piece of jewellery, you’ll be investing in a material that combines the brilliance of precious metals with the durability of a modern alloy. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the luxury of gold with a contemporary twist.

Looking for a uniquely handmade ring in recycled white gold?  Just get in touch: sian@sianelizabethhughes.co.uk