Similar to the diamond or gemstone, the metal setting is just as important when looking to select the gem that is right for you. White gold and gold engagement rings are always among the most popular choices. Both metals have the kind of beauty and durability that makes it more appropriate for couples who don’t want something fancy but still want something that’s durable.
What is White Gold?
A white gold is an alloy that contains yellow gold and other metals, which are palladium, silver and also nickel. The outcome is a strong and elegant, sleek silvery white metal. White gold is often plated with rhodium, a durable metal that makes white gold shiny, ostensibly to ‘level up’ white gold’s high level of brightness and help extend the lifespan of the ring. White gold and gold engagement rings are popular among today’s brides because of their modern cutting edge look.
What is Gold?
Gold is the pure natural metal used in jewelry for thousands of years. It is yellow and prized for natural beauty and malleability. The alloy mix used will determine the shade of gold in which your engagement rings are made; it can be yellow, white or rose gold. If you like gold engagement rings that traditionally look and feel, go for a gold engagement ring; it is classic and timeless.
White Gold vs. Gold: Key Differences
Both white gold and gold engagement rings are very pretty, but there are certain distinctions between the two. Familiarity with these differences can help you pick the metal which best suits your own personal style and preference.
Color and Aesthetic
A nice cool, silvery white is ideal for people who want a more modern and sleek look and white gold is what they will get. It works well with diamonds and other gemstones, and therefore makes an excellent choice for engagement rings..
Durability
The main difference is in durability as white gold is often more resistant to scratches and tarnishing because it is rhodium plated while yellow gold, for good measure, is equally resistant. However, over time the rhodium coating will wear off and the ring may need replating to keep it shiny. While softer, yellow gold is more likely to scratch, it is also more prone to a more classic look, which is what many want.
Maintenance
White gold and gold engagement rings need some care in order to keep looking their best. White gold does need occasional rhodium repiling but yellow gold engagement rings do not need polishing to keep them shiny. Luckily, both metals are quite easy to take care of and maintain with no hassle.
Price
Engagement rings made of 24k pure gold are more expensive than white gold rings. There’s a lot that goes into the price of white gold engagement rings: whether an alloy is being used and the degree to which the gold has been rhodium plated. White gold is more budget friendly than pure gold, however it still gives you a similar aesthetic.
Why Choose White Gold or Gold Engagement Rings?
Still popular is white gold and gold engagement rings because there are many reasons why they are. While both metals offer timeless beauty, their distinctions make one better for one's taste and preferences, another. Here are some reasons why these two options remain top choices:
Timeless Elegance
For centuries gold has stood as a sign of wealth, love and commitment. Classic warm, radiant hue makes it a staple choice for engagement rings, while the white gold offers a more modern, sleek design feel. Both golds, yellow gold and white gold, will hold up regardless of your choice.
Versatility
white gold and gold engagement rings are very versatile. All diamond cuts and gemstone settings are complemented. For those opting for vintage inspired rings yellow gold will work, whilst white gold for more modern designed rings. No matter what style you’re after, either of these options have unlimited customization potential.
Strength and Durability
Durability is evident when it comes to engagement rings. Both white gold and yellow gold are strong enough to survive daily wears and tears. White gold comes with another layer of protection against scratches and tarnishing by its rhodium plating.
Symbol of Luxury and Love
white gold and gold engagement rings are luxurious, lavish and perpetually beautiful. Metal for the engagement ring says you chose one, the other, or a mixture of both, they represent your commitment to a love that will last forever.
Conclusion
Ultimately, it comes down to personal style as to which type of engagement ring will best you: white gold and gold engagement rings. Both are beauties, both are durable, both have that timeless appeal that a couple requires. Both white gold and yellow gold are equally as popular because of the sleek, modern look of the former or the warm, traditional tone of the latter. With either, you will have the perfect way to show your love and commitment.