18K white gold is composed of 75% gold and 25% other metals such as copper, zinc, and nickel, or sometimes palladium and silver.
18kt White Gold
White gold it an increasingly popular choice these days. Many women opt for this colour because while it maintains the age-old tradition of having a gold engagement ring, the colour of metal has a more contemporary look to it than yellow gold. The purest form of gold is 24kt, though, so why opt for 18kt? Surely, the purer the better for the lady in your life? In fact, 24kt gold is simply too soft to be used for jewellery. It would scratch, tarnish and dent in a very short space of time. Gold is, therefore, usually combined with a few other metals to give it the strength and resistance to cope with everyday life.
In short: 18kt white gold is 75% pure gold alloyed with palladium, nickel, or silver — palladium-based alloys are now standard in London for hypoallergenic safety. Most pieces carry a rhodium plating that needs reapplying every 12-24 months to keep the bright finish. Vickers hardness around 150 HV. Hallmark '750' confirms 18kt purity. Both natural and lab-grown diamonds set beautifully in white gold.
In the case of 18kt white gold, the ring will be composed of 75% gold and 25% of other metals. It is the metals that are alloyed with the gold that give it its distinctive silver-white colouring. Alloys that are typically used include copper, zinc and nickel, or in some instances, palladium and silver. It is worth noting, however, that it’s not uncommon for people to have an allergic reaction to nickel, so it is important to point this out to your jeweller when choosing a ring if this is true in your case.
Whichever alloys are used, the final shank is then coated in a process called plating with rhodium. Although rhodium is a metal that is related to platinum, it is even tougher than that and tends to cost around four times more. Its value is reflected in the fact that it resists scratches and tarnishing, keeping your ring looking newer for longer. Also, it gives the white gold an additional reflective appearance, which will set off your diamond beautifully.
It’s worth bearing in mind that the rhodium plating will wear off over time. However, it is not a big job for your jeweller to re-plate it for you, giving it that good as new appearance.
18kt White Gold Ring (left) vs Platinum Ring after one year wear
White gold has become an increasingly popular choice for jewellery. Its contemporary look makes it a preferred option over traditional yellow gold. While pure gold is 24kt, it is too soft for daily wear. This is why 18kt gold, composed of 75% gold and 25% other metals, is ideal. These metals, such as copper, zinc, and nickel, or sometimes palladium and silver, give white gold its distinct silver-white colour.
An important step in the creation of white gold jewellery is rhodium plating. Rhodium, a metal related to platinum, provides extra durability and a reflective finish, enhancing the brilliance of your diamonds. However, rhodium plating can wear off over time, but it can be easily re-applied by your jeweller to maintain the ring's appearance.
Benefits of 18K White Gold
- Durable and resistant to scratches and tarnish
- More affordable than platinum
- Hypoallergenic options available (palladium or platinum alloy)
- Beautiful reflective finish due to rhodium plating
FAQs about 18K White Gold
-What is 18K white gold made of?
-Is 18K white gold durable?
Yes, 18K white gold is durable due to the metals alloyed with the gold, making it resistant to scratches and daily wear.
-Why is rhodium plating used on white gold?
Rhodium plating is used to enhance the durability and reflective finish of white gold, giving it a beautiful, shiny appearance.
-Does rhodium plating wear off?
Yes, rhodium plating can wear off over time but can be easily re-applied by a jeweller to restore its original appearance.
-Can people with nickel allergies wear white gold?
People with nickel allergies should opt for white gold alloyed with palladium or platinum, which are hypoallergenic options.
-How do I care for my 18K white gold jewellery?
To care for 18K white gold, avoid exposing it to harsh chemicals, clean it regularly with a soft cloth, and have it professionally inspected and polished periodically.
-Is 18K white gold more expensive than yellow gold?
18K white gold is generally priced similarly to 18K yellow gold, but the additional cost of rhodium plating can make it slightly more expensive.
-How often should I re-plate my white gold ring?
It's recommended to re-plate your white gold ring every 1-2 years, depending on how often it is worn and how well it is maintained.
-Can 18K white gold be resized?
Yes, 18K white gold can be resized, but it should be done by a professional jeweller to ensure the integrity of the ring is maintained.
-What makes 18K white gold different from platinum?
While both are white metals, platinum is denser and more durable than white gold. However, white gold is more affordable and lighter, making it a popular choice for jewellery.
