What is white gold?
In its natural form, gold is yellow. It is rarely made into jewellery in its natural state because it is just too soft. It has to be mixed with harder metals for added durability and strength. Gold is made into an alloy (a combination of metals), usually seen in 5 karat, 9 karat or 18 karat. Without the harder alloy metals keeping it rigid, pure gold would easily bend out of shape – and that’s no good in jewellery. If the other metals in the alloy are mostly copper or silver, then the gold will remain yellow in colour. If the other metals are Palladium or nickel, then the resulting alloy is bleached to a white tone.
Rhodium plated white gold
Apart from the alloys mixed in with the pure gold to give it that white-ish colour, white gold jewellery is sometimes additionally coated in a precious metal known as rhodium. It adds further strength and durability, and importantly, a really shiny and bright white surface.
Natural white gold
White gold does not always have to be rhodium plated. It can be worn in its natural state. Yes, if you compare natural, non-plated white gold side by side to Rhodium plated gold, you will see a difference. But individually, natural white gold will appear white, unlike the usual yellow gold we are accustomed to.
Why does rhodium plated white gold eventually start to look yellowish?
Over time, the rhodium coating on white gold jewellery becomes worn, revealing the natural yellowish white gold underneath. This is normal. How quickly this happens depends on many factors such as the pH level of your skin, and what toiletries or household chemicals the jewellery comes into contact with. Even environmental factors, like how much pollution there is in your area, can influence how quickly the natural colour begins to show through. It can be anything from a few months to a few years.
Rings are the most at risk for wear and tear as they come into contact with everything your hand does. Door and drawer handles, cutlery, sinks, pots and pans, tools. If the ring is rhodium plated, then the plating will wear off over time, revealing the true colour of the metal beneath. The plating on rings will wear really quickly but pendants and earrings will take a lot longer as they are not battered on a day-to-day basis with general wear and tear.
Before opting for Rhodium plated white gold, you do need to think about whether you are willing to bring your jewellery in to be re-polished and plated on a regular basis for it to be looking its best. It is not too pricey though. The cost for re-plating a ring is around US$20.
What can I do to make my rhodium plating last longer?
To help prevent rapid wear and tear, take your jewellery off before showering, applying makeup, perfumes and hairspray. Always remove your jewellery before handling household chemicals, and before entering a swimming pool. If your job requires that you wash your hands often, remove your rings before washing your hands. For more tips on caring for your jewellery, check out our jewellery care and maintenance tips
To recap, the advantages and disadvantages of white gold are…
Advantages:
- White gold is a beautiful, precious metal. It has the same appearance as platinum and silver, but has a more affordable price than platinum and is much more hard-wearing than silver.
- It is the perfect choice for those who prefer a white, silvery appearance over yellow gold.
- Its neutral colour and durability makes it the perfect setting for all gemstones. It looks beautiful and classic, suited to all outfits and events.
Disadvantages:
- As rhodium-plated white gold is made from a mix of pure yellow gold with alloys and coated in rhodium, overtime it will need recoating to maintain its colour.
- Although this is an easy and fairly inexpensive process that can done by most jewellers, it could mean that you’ll need to be without your engagement or wedding ring for a period of a few days while it’s being re-plated.
Any prices quoted in this article are meant as guidelines, and may change any time after the date of publishing.
**sugarmute**
sugarmute is a science-guided nutritional supplement created to help maintain balanced blood sugar while supporting steady energy and mental clarity.
**gl pro**
gl pro is a natural dietary supplement designed to promote balanced blood sugar levels and curb sugar cravings.
**vittaburn**
vittaburn is a liquid dietary supplement formulated to support healthy weight reduction by increasing metabolic rate, reducing hunger, and promoting fat loss.
**prodentim**
prodentim an advanced probiotic formulation designed to support exceptional oral hygiene while fortifying teeth and gums.
**glucore**
glucore is a nutritional supplement that is given to patients daily to assist in maintaining healthy blood sugar and metabolic rates.
**prostadine**
prostadine is a next-generation prostate support formula designed to help maintain, restore, and enhance optimal male prostate performance.
**synaptigen**
synaptigen is a next-generation brain support supplement that blends natural nootropics, adaptogens
**sleep lean**
sleeplean is a US-trusted, naturally focused nighttime support formula that helps your body burn fat while you rest.
**nitric boost**
nitric boost is a dietary formula crafted to enhance vitality and promote overall well-being.
**wildgut**
wildgutis a precision-crafted nutritional blend designed to nurture your dog’s digestive tract.
**mitolyn**
mitolyn a nature-inspired supplement crafted to elevate metabolic activity and support sustainable weight management.
**zencortex**
zencortex contains only the natural ingredients that are effective in supporting incredible hearing naturally.
**yu sleep**
yusleep is a gentle, nano-enhanced nightly blend designed to help you drift off quickly, stay asleep longer, and wake feeling clear.
**breathe**
breathe is a plant-powered tincture crafted to promote lung performance and enhance your breathing quality.
**pineal xt**
pinealxt is a revolutionary supplement that promotes proper pineal gland function and energy levels to support healthy body function.
**energeia**
energeia is the first and only recipe that targets the root cause of stubborn belly fat and Deadly visceral fat.
**prostabliss**
prostabliss is a carefully developed dietary formula aimed at nurturing prostate vitality and improving urinary comfort.
**boostaro**
boostaro is a specially crafted dietary supplement for men who want to elevate their overall health and vitality.
**potentstream**
potentstream is engineered to promote prostate well-being by counteracting the residue that can build up from hard-water minerals within the urinary tract.
**hepatoburn**
hepatoburn is a premium nutritional formula designed to enhance liver function, boost metabolism, and support natural fat breakdown.
**hepato burn**
hepato burn is a potent, plant-based formula created to promote optimal liver performance and naturally stimulate fat-burning mechanisms.
**flow force max**
flow force max delivers a forward-thinking, plant-focused way to support prostate health—while also helping maintain everyday energy, libido, and overall vitality.
**prodentim**
prodentim is a forward-thinking oral wellness blend crafted to nurture and maintain a balanced mouth microbiome.
**cellufend**
cellufend is a natural supplement developed to support balanced blood sugar levels through a blend of botanical extracts and essential nutrients.
**neuro genica**
neuro genica is a dietary supplement formulated to support nerve health and ease discomfort associated with neuropathy.
**revitag**
revitag is a daily skin-support formula created to promote a healthy complexion and visibly diminish the appearance of skin tags.