Difference Between Platinum and White Gold

Gold is a pure element that is extracted from some mines. Since ancient times it has been assigned great monetary value due to its appearance, rarity and symbolism. It is possibly the most famous metal in the context of jewelry, but in addition to that it also has many other practical uses.  Difference Between Platinum and White Gold

Gold is also known for its high malleability, ductility, and resistance to corrosion and chemical reactions; in addition, it is a good conductor of electricity.

Pure gold from mines is actually yellow in color and relatively smooth, but such smoothness is often a disadvantage when used for jewelry; for this reason it is combined with other metals in order to give it greater resistance. This combination of gold with other metals affects its color, so sometimes we find pieces in white gold.

In recent decades, white gold has gained great popularity and this has contributed to its being associated and sometimes even confused with plant, nickel, palladium and even platinum. However, it is good to know that these are different metals.

Just in case you have doubts about it, below we explain what the difference is between platinum and white gold. In case you already know the difference, continue reading below, because you can find a little more information that complements what you already know.

WHITE GOLD  Difference Between Platinum and White Gold

The popularity of white gold in jewelry has largely been due to its resemblance to titanium and platinum, however the cost is much lower compared to the latter two. White gold was originally designed to create wedding rings with a different twist, as there was once no other option other than the classic yellow gold .

Thanks to its combination with silver or palladium, white gold tends to be more durable and resistant than yellow gold. It is considered a good complement to diamonds, which is why it is so sought after in engagement rings.

White gold is often mixed with rhodium, which gives it a more shiny and silver touch. The downside to this is that over time the rhodium fades and the jewelry has to be re-treated.

PLATINUM

On the other hand, platinum is also a pure metal that is extracted from mines. The name of this metal derives from the Spanish term «platina» which means «little silver», this due to its appearance.

Platinum is dense, malleable, ductile, and a very precious metal; with an appearance very similar to silver. It is generally non-reactive and highly resistant to corrosion. It is also one of the rarest metals on earth, which is why it is really expensive. It costs twice what gold or even more depending on its purity.

Finally, both gold and platinum in their pure state can be scratched even with fingernails; however, platinum is heavier and unlike gold, it is white by nature. White gold is whiter and brighter than platinum, which has a duller color.