White Gold Engagement Rings

When considering engagement rings many couples today prefer white gold engagement rings. The reason for this is that a diamond set in white gold looks sensationally stunning. White gold is obtained by alloying gold with other metal elements.

Nickel was widely used in white gold but rarely used today because many people had adverse reactions to the nickel. The majority of white gold is now coated with rhodium plating. Rhodium is very similar to platinum and shares many of the same properties. It is more expensive than platinum therefore most jewelry is not made of solid rhodium. It is a very hard metal which causes a rhodium plated ring to very durable. Rhodium plated white gold engagement rings should be re-rhodium plated every couple of years.

One may want to know whether it is better to choose platinum over white gold engagement rings. A white gold ring that has been rhodium plated would look as white in color and be as stunning as platinum. Platinum, unlike white gold, is used in ninety-five percent pure form. It is long lasting and very white therefore not needing to be rhodium plated. It is also very heavy and quite a bit more expensive than similar white gold rings. If you are on a budget you can find equally as beautiful white gold engagement rings for far less money.

White gold engagement rings cost will vary depending on the type of metals it has been blended with. Different metal elements are used in the making of white gold for different reasons. Nickel is hard and strong and has been used in the creation of rings and pins. In contrast gold-palladium metals are softer and more pliable works well in setting gemstones.

The jewelry industry uses the term white gold to describe karat gold alloys that are white in color. Some goldsmiths think that the rhodium plating results in a color that is very close to white gold’s natural hue. Often colors of pale yellow, light brown and very pale rose have been referred to as white gold. Jewelers will try to hide these colors in white gold engagement rings with rhodium plating.

With all this being said, you may wonder how you will know exactly what you are buying. It is very important to find a jeweler or store that you can fully trust. They should be more than willing to show you documentation of authenticity and certificates denoting the various grades and levels. Begin by asking friends or relatives for their recommendations. You can also read consumer’s reviews of various white gold engagement rings online.