When it comes to wedding and engagement rings, gold and platinum are the two most commonly used metal types. Both can be used to create stunning jewelry, but they each have their own unique qualities, some of which lie beneath their shining surfaces. Let’s take a look at the differences between these types of metals to help you to make an informed decision about the right one for your ring.
Appearance
Both platinum and white gold are popular options when it comes to rings, and these metals can be very similar in appearance. However, when you want a light-colored ring without spending time and money on its upkeep, platinum is the superior choice. This metal is already naturally white, whereas gold is naturally yellow, making platinum ideal for creating a light-colored ring. By contrast, lightening the color of gold for a ring can be a complicated process. To start, you need to mix in an alloy, usually nickel, which must then be plated to take out any leftover yellow tint. Over time, this plating will wear off, creating a yellowish tinge that can only be removed by re-polishing and replating the ring again.
Of course, there are also other classic options in terms of gold if you prefer not to choose a white ring, including yellow and rose gold. However, it’s important to get the right mix of alloys to create the perfect color. For example, too much of certain alloys will give your rose gold a coppery red hue, and yellow gold rings can look dull with depending on the alloy mixture.
Cost
Today, the spot price of gold is relatively high, making it more expensive than platinum. However, platinum is heavier than gold, so similarly sized rings made in either metal usually end up costing roughly the same amount of money.
It’s also worth remembering that platinum rings can at times be more expensive than white gold. This can happen for a few reasons. First, platinum can be more difficult to work with and often requires a more experienced jeweler. Second, where gold rings may rely heavily on alloys, platinum alloys used in jewelry are often more pure, and therefore more costly.
Durability
Both platinum and gold are precious metals, and they’re both considered strong and durable. No matter which option you choose, a well-made ring using either metal should last for several generations.
However, it’s worth noting that platinum is more durable than gold, and it loses little of its weight during wear and polishing. A softer metal, platinum is more susceptible to bending, whereas gold more susceptible to cracking. If you have an experienced jeweler who makes quality pieces, you will not have to worry.
Allergies
One last thing to note: platinum is hypoallergenic. However, depending on the alloys used in different types of gold, some wearers may suffer from allergies, with nickel as a frequent source of allergic reactions.
Both gold and platinum are ideal choices for rings of all types, though each metal has its special unique qualities. No matter which type of metal you choose, proper upkeep and maintenance will preserve its luminous sheen for years to come.
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