White gold and platinum look similar. Therefore, many people get confused when it comes to distinguishing one from the other.

Why is platinum more expensive? What exactly is white gold? In this article, we will discuss the differences between the two, along with the pros and cons that each of them has to offer.

White gold – what is it?

Not everyone knows this, but there is no such thing as natural white gold. It is actually an alloy of yellow gold and other white metals, such as palladium and silver, which is then plated with rhodium (one of the most expensive precious metals in the world). This final layer is added to achieve that white, glossy finish.

Because gold is very soft and malleable in its natural state, it is often mixed with other metals to make it stronger. If pure gold were used for jewelry, it would bend very easily. This is why both white and yellow gold need to be mixed with stronger alloys to become harder and more durable. Here is a system for measuring the purity of gold (finesse):

- 9K gold contains 37.5% pure gold;

- 14k gold contains 58% pure gold;

- 18k gold contains 75% pure gold.

Platinum – what is it?

Platinum, a naturally occurring metal, is rare, harder, and heavier than gold. Due to its hardness, platinum can be used in its pure form for the manufacture of jewelry, usually in a proportion of 95%. As a result, platinum jewelry is more expensive than gold, even though they may look similar.

Platinum is scratch-resistant, but the surface can develop small bumps and ridges. These small 'imperfections' occur as a normal result of continuous, long-term wear and tear and are known as patina, the antique sheen developed over time.

The main advantage of white gold over platinum is of course the cost, as the former is cheaper. On the other hand, the disadvantage is that white gold requires a rhodium renewal once a year as a maintenance measure. This is because the rhodium layer wears off and the underlying yellow-gold layer is exposed.