White Gold?

I thought Gold was….Gold!  

          Of course you’re right – Gold is the color near to yellow that even crayon makers call “Gold.” White gold is achieved by “alloying” or mixing yellow gold with another metal.  

          There is no singular method used to “create” what we all know as white gold. Some goldsmiths use Nickel to achieve the white color. Others use more exotic metals such as platinum or palladium. Each alloy offers the goldsmith special properties, and therefore each will affect the final product.  

          Nickel will add strength and durability, and will stand up to the constant wear of something like a fine ring. Alloyed with palladium the metal will remain a bit softer and will therefore offer the stone setter a more acceptable material to work in. To achieve a special tonal color or to allow for specific working properties, copper, silver and even platinum might be added by the “smith.”

          Typically, when a piece of white gold jewelry is finished it is given a special coating of the metal rhodium. Rhodium is one of the metals in the platinum “family.” The rhodium plating will offer the final brightness and uniformity of color that is sought after by most fanciers of white gold jewelry.  

You can find White Gold in standard karats, the same you will find for “yellow” gold. Look for 14k or 18k to offer the best quality, durability and value.  

With regard to fashion, the addition of white gold to your jewelry collection will open up a whole new world of variety and beauty. Gold is still gold – no matter its color. Combine the two colors together (even in a single piece) and you will surely find the best of what both have to offer. 

© Rocks to Gems