What is White Gold? Everything You Need to Know
What is White Gold?
White gold is a beautiful and much-loved precious metal, known for its soft, silvery colour and elegant look. It’s not something that’s found naturally – white gold is made by combining pure yellow gold with white metals such as palladium or silver to give it that signature cool tone. The result is a versatile metal that feels timeless yet modern, making it a popular choice for engagement rings, wedding bands, and everyday jewellery. Its gentle lustre and refined finish offer a sleek alternative to yellow or rose gold, while still carrying all the beauty and value of traditional gold. White gold pairs effortlessly with a wide range of gemstones, from classic diamonds to vibrant coloured stones, allowing each piece to shine in its own unique way.
Pear Shape Diamond Cluster Ring in White Gold £895.00
How is White Gold Made?
White gold is created by blending pure yellow gold with white metals such as palladium or silver. This softens the natural yellow tone of gold and makes it more durable – ideal for jewellery that’s worn and cherished every day. Once blended, the metal still carries a faint yellow tint, so most white gold pieces are plated with rhodium for a bright, protected finish.
Does White Gold Tarnish?
White gold doesn’t tarnish in the traditional sense, but it can lose its bright white finish over time. This is because most white gold jewellery is coated in rhodium, and with everyday wear, especially on rings, this rhodium layer can gradually wear away, revealing the slightly warmer, yellow tones of the gold alloy beneath. This is completely normal and easily restored with a re-plating. With a little care and maintenance, white gold jewellery can continue to look radiant and beautiful for many years to come.
Sapphire and Diamond Ring in White Gold £925.00
White Gold Rhodium Plating
Rhodium plating is the final touch that gives white gold its luminous, mirror-like finish. Rhodium itself is a rare and highly valuable metal from the platinum family, prized for its brilliant whiteness, strength, and resistance to tarnishing.
The plating process involves carefully cleaning the jewellery before applying a fine layer of rhodium using an electroplating technique. This enhances the shine and masks the naturally warmer tones of the white gold alloy beneath.
With time and regular wear, especially on rings, the rhodium will gradually wear away. Most people choose to have their jewellery re-plated every 12 to 24 months to keep it looking fresh. Regular replating, paired with gentle cleaning and safe storage, helps preserve your jewellery’s beautiful finish for many years.
Is White Gold Expensive?
White gold is a premium metal, often more expensive than yellow gold, but more affordable than platinum while offering a similar elegant appearance. Its price depends on the purity of the gold used, the other metals in the alloy, and the craftsmanship involved. Although the maintenance of rhodium plating adds to the cost, it also enhances the piece’s durability. White gold is a luxury option as its price reflects not just the gold content but also the skill and time involved in its production. It’s a great choice for important, cherished jewellery pieces with a lower price tag than platinum.
White Gold vs Platinum
White gold and platinum both offer a sophisticated, silvery-white finish, but they differ in composition, weight, and price. Platinum is a naturally white metal and tends to be denser and heavier, giving it exceptional durability – meaning it does not require rhodium plating. It’s also hypoallergenic, making it ideal for sensitive skin.
White gold, on the other hand, is made by blending yellow gold with white metals and finished with rhodium plating for extra shine. While platinum is usually more expensive due to its rarity and purity, white gold provides a more accessible alternative with a similar aesthetic, offering style and elegance at a lower price point (although it is important to factor in the cost of rhodium plating maintenance).
White Gold Oval Signet Ring £1,200.00
How to Clean White Gold Jewellery
To keep your white gold jewellery looking its best, clean it gently at home using lukewarm water, a mild soap, and a soft cloth or soft-bristled brush. Soak the piece for a few minutes, then lightly wipe away any dirt or residue. Avoid scrubbing harshly or using at-home chemical or ultrasonic cleaners, as these can damage the rhodium plating. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a clean, soft cloth. For a deeper clean or to restore shine, we recommend a professional cleaning and polish every 6 to 12 months. This helps maintain your jewellery’s brilliance and ensures it stays in beautiful condition for years to come.
Explore Beautiful White Gold Jewellery
At Timothy Roe, we use only top-quality white gold and expert craftsmanship to create stunning, one-of-a-kind jewellery. From timeless rings and elegant necklaces to beautifully made bracelets and beyond, every piece is thoughtfully designed to be treasured for years to come. Explore our collection online or visit our showroom and workshop in Chichester to see our white gold jewellery up close.
If you have something special in mind, our bespoke design service is here to bring your vision to life – whether it’s a meaningful engagement ring, a family signet ring, or something entirely unique, we’ll help you create it with care and precision.
