WHITE GOLD
White gold is an alloy of gold with white metals (palladium, nickel or silver) that give it a silvery-white colour, often additionally plated with rhodium for a bright shine and hardness. White gold combines the value and nobility of gold with a cool, modern silvery look resembling platinum but more affordable. It became especially popular in the 20th century, particularly in the Art Deco era, and today is a classic choice for engagement rings, since its cool shine perfectly emphasises the sparkle of diamonds. The hallmark states the content of pure gold, and the admixtures the colour and hardness. White gold is a noble alloy of cool silvery-white colour, in which gold combines with white metals, giving jewellery a modern, elegant platinum-type shine at a more affordable price, ideal as a setting for diamonds.
Compare “White gold” with another term
Meaning, origins and distinction — side by side.
Distinction
Two white precious metals, alike to the eye but different in nature. Platinum is a self-sufficient, dense metal, naturally white, hypoallergenic, very strong and heavy, developing a matte patina over time. White gold is an alloy of yellow gold with white metals (palladium, nickel), usually rhodium-plated for a bright whiteness that eventually wears and needs renewing. Platinum is white forever; white gold owes it to plating.
