What is the Difference Between Gold and White Gold?

The main difference between gold and white gold lies in their composition and appearance. Here are the key differences:

1. Composition: Gold is a soft and pliable metal, so it is often mixed with other metals to increase its strength. Yellow gold is obtained by mixing pure gold with alloys of copper and zinc, while white gold is a mixture of pure gold and white metals like palladium, nickel, and silver.
2. Appearance: Yellow gold has a classic and vintage yellowish color, while white gold has a yellowish hue and a similar appearance to platinum. White gold is often plated with rhodium to make it look completely white.
3. Durability and Maintenance: The durability of these metals depends on the blend of alloys used to create them. White gold is generally stronger and more durable than yellow gold because it consists of harder alloyed metals. However, white gold requires more maintenance, as the rhodium plating needs to be replaced every few years to retain its luster.
4. Allergens: Yellow gold is more hypoallergenic than white gold, which may cause allergic reactions in some individuals due to the presence of nickel.
5. Compatibility with Stones: Yellow gold provides a warm contrast for diamonds and gemstones, while white gold offers a subtle, neutral look that complements various stone colors.

In terms of cost, both white and yellow gold are priced similarly, depending on the karat weight. However, white gold may require additional costs for rhodium replating.

Comparative Table: Gold vs White Gold

Here is a table comparing the differences between gold (yellow gold) and white gold:

Both yellow and white gold are reasonably priced and widely available, and their differences mainly lie in their composition, color, durability, maintenance, and hypoallergenic properties.