Cool Elegance in White Gold Engagement Rings

At first it may sound like a contraction in terms: White gold. When we think of gold, usually a beautifully shiny yellow hue comes to mind. How can there be white gold?

White gold is a precious metal, just as natural yellow gold is. And 18 carat white gold is just as valuable and desirable as its more well-known cousin yellow gold. White gold engagement rings are made by combining 75% pure yellow gold with 25% other “white” metals such as silver and palladium, just as 18k yellow gold is made by mixing 75% pure yellow gold with other metals such as copper and zinc. Both an 18k white gold engagement ring and an 18k yellow gold ring contain the exact same amount of pure gold. Combining pure, or 24k, gold with other metals strengthens the metal so that it can be formed into rings without deforming and becoming dented. None of the beauty is lost, but is rather enhanced by this mixing of metals.

But white gold engagement rings are a bit out of the ordinary. Who would want a silvery-white ring when a yellow gold ring is more common? Well, for one thing, some people prefer a silvery hue. But sterling silver really isn’t suitable for an engagement ring, as it tarnishes and just isn’t as sturdy as a real gold ring. Real gold in yellow or white, palladium, or platinum are more suitable settings for the precious gems that usually grace an engagement ring, and they are stronger and tarnish-free.

Because of its lovely silvery hue, white gold engagement rings can play up the “colourless” – or “white” – attribute of a truly gorgeous diamond. If you are lucky enough to buy a near-colourless diamond, why not enhance that hue with white gold engagement rings?

Many people would love to buy a platinum engagement ring, but either the cost or the weight is a barrier. Platinum is much denser than white gold, making it heavier, which can be a concern when wearing an elaborate ring. With white gold, you can get the silvery look of platinum without these concerns.

Both white gold and platinum rings are usually coated with palladium, a bright white precious metal. This helps them resist scratching better – all gold and platinum can scratch – and gives a very bright finish to the rings. For cool elegance, choose from amongst white gold engagement rings.