Both gold and platinum are precious metals and are considered rare. That is why they are expensive to buy and worth a lot to own. It’s no wonder that quality jewelry, including engagement rings, is made from gold and platinum.

Many people simply don’t know the difference between the two metals. In fact, white gold is often confused for platinum and vice versa. Here’s some information that is going to clarify the differences and give you a solid education in both:

White Gold & Yellow Gold

White gold is basically an alloy of gold and other white metals, like silver and palladium. White gold is typically 9 carat, 14 carat, or 18 carat. What separates white gold from yellow gold is the alloy. For example, 18 carat white gold is made by blending 75% gold and 25% other metals like silver and palladium. On the other hand, yellow gold is made by blending 75% gold with 25% other metals like zinc and copper. So, the difference between yellow and white gold is what metals are mixed with the gold - the gold itself is exactly the same.

Often, new white gold rings are coated with another white metal called Rhodium. Rhodium shares many properties with platinum, including its white color. It’s the Rhodium that creates the similarity between platinum and white gold. The natural color of white gold is actually grayish.

Platinum

Platinum is a white metal. In contrast to gold, platinum is used in jewelry in its pure form – usually up to 95% pure. Since platinum is very durable, it lasts in color and doesn’t need Rhodium plating as white gold does.

Platinum is very dense metal, which means it is heavy. A platinum engagement ring will feel heavier than an 18 carat gold engagement ring.

Since platinum is significantly more rare than gold, it is more expensive. A platinum ring will cost almost double the price of an 18 carat white gold ring.

Will a White Gold Engagement Ring Match a Platinum Wedding Ring?

The answer depends. If the white gold engagement ring has been rhodium plated (and chances are it has), then the difference in color will hardly be noticeable. If the engagement ring hasn’t been rhodium plated, the contrast will be striking, and it isn’t a suggested mix.

However, like all things in life, the rules can often be broken. If it looks and feels right for you, then so be it.

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