If you’re in the market for a new piece of jewelry, you may be wondering if white gold is a real gold or if it’s just a fancy name for another metal. In this article, we’ll explore the answer to that question and provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision when shopping for jewelry.
What is White Gold?
White gold is a type of gold that has been alloyed with other metals to give it a silver or white color. Pure gold is too soft to be used in jewelry, so it is typically alloyed with other metals such as silver, nickel, or palladium to increase its hardness and durability. The amount of gold in white gold can vary, but it is typically around 75% pure gold.
Is White Gold a Real Gold?
Yes, white gold is a real gold. It is an alloy of gold, just like yellow gold or rose gold. The difference between white gold and other types of gold is the additional metals that are added to give it its white color. These metals do not change the fact that white gold is still a gold alloy.
White Gold vs. Yellow Gold
Yellow gold is the most common type of gold used in jewelry, and it is also the most pure. 24-karat gold is 100% pure gold, but it is too soft to be used in jewelry. Therefore, it is typically alloyed with other metals to increase its strength and durability. Yellow gold is typically alloyed with copper and silver, which gives it its characteristic yellow color.
White gold, on the other hand, is typically alloyed with nickel, palladium, or silver to give it its white color. The additional metals also make white gold stronger and more durable than yellow gold.
Rhodium Plating
One thing to keep in mind when buying white gold is that it is often plated with rhodium to enhance its whiteness and shine. Rhodium is a precious metal that is part of the platinum family, and it is highly reflective and resistant to corrosion.
Over time, the rhodium plating on a white gold ring can wear away, causing the ring to lose its shine and appear yellowish. However, the ring can be re-plated with rhodium to restore its original appearance.
Hypoallergenic Properties
If you have sensitive skin, you may be wondering if white gold is a good choice for you. White gold is generally hypoallergenic, but it may contain traces of nickel, which can cause an allergic reaction in some people. If you have a nickel allergy, you may want to consider a different metal for your jewelry.
Cost
White gold is typically less expensive than platinum, but it is more expensive than yellow gold. The cost of white gold can vary depending on the purity of the gold and the other metals that are used in the alloy.
Durability
White gold is a strong and durable metal, but it is not as durable as platinum. Over time, white gold may show signs of wear and tear, such as scratches or dents. However, these can usually be easily repaired by a jeweler.
Customization
One of the benefits of white gold is its ability to be customized. White gold can be easily engraved or embellished with intricate designs to create a unique and personalized piece of jewelry.
Environmental Impact
When choosing a piece of jewelry, it’s important to consider the environmental impact of the materials used. Gold mining can have a significant impact on the environment, but many jewelers now use recycled gold and other sustainable materials in their products. If you’re concerned about the environmental impact of your jewelry, be sure to ask your jeweler about their sourcing and manufacturing practices.
Conclusion
In conclusion, white gold is a real gold that has been alloyed with other metals to give it a white color. It is a strong and durable metal that can be customized and personalized to create unique and beautiful pieces of jewelry. While it is generally hypoallergenic, it may contain traces of nickel, so it’s important to consider this if you have a nickel allergy. The cost of white gold can vary depending on the purity of the gold and the other metals used in the alloy, but it is typically less expensive than platinum.
If you’re considering purchasing white gold jewelry, keep in mind that it may be plated with rhodium, which can wear away over time. However, the ring can be re-plated to restore its original appearance. When choosing a piece of jewelry, be sure to consider the environmental impact of the materials used and ask your jeweler about their sourcing and manufacturing practices.
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In conclusion, white gold is a beautiful and popular choice for jewelry. It is a real gold that has been alloyed with other metals to give it its white color, and it is strong, durable, and customizable. Whether you’re looking for an engagement ring, wedding band, or other piece of jewelry, white gold is definitely a great option to consider.
