A Guide to White Gold Jewelry
White gold is a classic in the world of fine jewelry. It offers a sleek and neutral hue, in contrast to its warm yellow and rose gold counterparts.
Loved for its modern appeal, white gold provides a versatile canvas that enhances the brilliance of diamonds and other gemstones, making it a favorite for engagement rings, wedding bands, and everyday luxury pieces alike.
In this guide, we’ll explore the origins, composition, and care.
What exactly Is White Gold?
White gold is not a naturally occurring metal, but an alloy created by combining pure gold with other white metals, such as palladium, nickel, or silver. This alloying process enhances the strength of gold while giving it its distinctive silvery-white color.
While white gold is indeed “white”, to achieve the bright reflective finish that it’s known for, most white gold pieces are plated with rhodium, a rare and durable metal.
Rhodium enhances the white appearance of the gold while adding an extra layer of protection against scratches and tarnish. Note that this plating wears off over time, requiring periodic reapplication to maintain its pristine appearance.
White gold is available in various karats, with 14k and 18k being the most common in fine jewelry. The karat number reflects the percentage of pure gold in the alloy:
18k white gold contains 75% gold, offering a richer color and higher value.
14k white gold contains 58.3% gold and is slightly more durable, making it ideal for everyday wear.
The Origins of White Gold
White gold was first invented in 19th-century Europe.
It was at this time where jewelers “discovered” it while trying to find a way to create a more affordable metal that mimicked the look of platinum.
It wasn’t until 1912 though, that the alloy became commercially available, following a patent in Pforzheim, Germany.
A few years later by the mid-1920s, white gold gained popularity as word spread that it was a more affordable alternative to platinum.
World War II further propelled the popularity of white gold; with platinum restricted for military use, white gold became a popular substitute in fine jewelry. This was the trend that was similarly seen with rose gold at the time.
With its neutral backdrop, white gold remains arguably one of the most popular hues of jewelry today. Rings, earrings, necklaces, and pieces of all kinds are made of it, and it remains a timeless choice among those with both modern and classic tastes alike.
Care and Maintenance of White Gold Jewelry
White gold is a durable metal, but proper care is important in order to preserve its beauty over time. Here are some tips to keep your white gold piece looking its best:
Cleaning: Regular cleaning is key to maintaining the metal’s brilliance. Use a gentle jewelry cleaner or a solution of warm water and mild, detergent-free soap. Clean your piece with a soft brush, rinse thoroughly, and dry with a soft cloth. Avoid abrasive materials that could scratch the rhodium plating, like wire brushes or steel wool.
Polishing and Replating: Over time, the rhodium plating on white gold may fade, revealing the not-as-brilliant tone of the underlying white gold alloy. When this happens, professional replating can restore your jewelry’s bright white finish. At Kim Quang, we offer expert cleaning and replating services to ensure your white gold pieces always shine like new.
Storage: Store your white gold jewelry in a soft cloth pouch or a lined jewelry box to prevent scratches. Keep it separate from other pieces to minimize contact and potential abrasion.
Avoiding Harsh Chemicals: White gold can be weakened by exposure to chemicals like chlorine, found in pool water and cleaning products. Always remove white gold jewelry before swimming, cleaning, or using harsh chemicals.
Kim Quang: San Diego’s Trusted Source for White Gold Jewelry
White gold stands as one of the more popular metals in fine jewelry today.
Its cool hue makes it a versatile option for a variety of pieces. It complements both modern and classic designs and enhances the brilliance of any stone set on it.
At Kim Quang Fine Jewelry, we have one of San Diego’s largest collections of white gold jewelry pieces. Whether you’re looking for an engagement ring, a chain, or even something that’s custom-designed, our expert team is here to help you find the perfect piece.
Visit us today to explore our collection and experience the expertise that has made us the preferred fine jeweler in San Diego. Let us help you find a piece that will be enjoyed for years to come.