platinum settings -

When shopping for that perfect piece, you want everything to be just right. From the design to the diamond to the metal. You’ve decided to go for a white metal look, but now there’s one more step. White gold or platinum? Read on to find out the differences, so you choose the best metal for you!

White gold vs. platinum, what is the difference? They look the same, right? While they have similarities, they are certainly not the same. From price to durability, look (yes look!), and so much more! We know it’s a lot but don’t worry, we are here to break down the differences and help make sure you pick the perfect metal for that perfect piece.

What Is White Gold?

First off, what is white gold? Let’s answer that here! White gold is a type of gold (duh!), but not a pure white metal. It does not happen naturally but is instead a combination of alloys and is created when you mix yellow gold with nickel or zinc, and finish off with rhodium plating.

What Is Platinum?

Now, what is platinum? Platinum is a rare, pure metal that gets its color naturally. It is 95% platinum with 5% mixed alloys. Its name originates from the Spanish Platina, a diminutive of Plata, or silver. While it may have a similar appearance thanks to its color, platinum is very much its own metal.

What Is The Difference Between White Gold And Platinum?

White gold and platinum are great choices if you prefer the look of a white metal.

So which is better? What’s the difference? While visually similar, this is really where their similarities end.

White gold has a very different chemical makeup from platinum, making one metal better for some designs and uses and the other metal better for other designs and uses.

Each metal has both advantages and disadvantages, so let’s dive in so you can pick the right metal for your fabulous engagement ring, wedding ring, and fine jewelry.

Platinum vs. White Gold

Platinum and white gold can seem so similar that it is hard to know which one is best. But seem is the key word here! From price point, to durability, to purity, platinum and white gold are very different.

14K White Gold 1.5mm Comfort Fit Engagement Ring

Advantages And Disadvantages Of White Gold vs. Platinum

Platinum is not necessarily better than white gold and vice versa. Each metal has its advantages, making them better suited for your needs. Many people prefer white gold for certain pieces and platinum for others. It all depends on the item, your lifestyle, and your budget, among others. Read on for the deets and see which metal is right for you.

Durability

White gold is quite durable, this goes for 14K white gold and 18K white gold. Yellow or rose gold has a bigger difference in durability (read more HERE). However, because white gold is plated in rhodium, 14K and 18K white gold has similar durability and is favored for everyday use.

14K White Gold Inside Out Petite Diamond Hoops

14K White Gold Inside Out Round Hoops, 1/2 Inch Diameter (0.25 Ctw.)

This plating, however, also makes white gold more vulnerable to wearing away, or thinning over time, which can require white gold pieces to be replated. (Replating is not standard or automatically required but subject to use and wear and tear.)

Platinum is also fairly durable and heavier since it is a purer metal. However, it is more malleable, or bendable, than white gold. Additionally, it is more susceptible to scratches and small dents, thanks to this bendability.

Price & Affordability

Budget is always something to consider when investing in a piece of fine jewelry, an engagement ring, or a wedding ring. White gold is generally more affordable than platinum, because platinum is a more pure metal, it is typically also more expensive.

Prices, however, fluctuate as the price of gold and the metals that make up white gold can increase for various reasons. So while white gold is generally less expensive than platinum, this is not always true depending on market considerations.

Finally, the cost of replating white gold is something to consider. While the initial out-of-pocket costs of white gold may be cheaper, if you need to replate your piece, then this is a future cost to keep in mind.

Hypoallergenic Properties

Both metals are completely safe to wear, but if you have sensitive skin, you know just how important it is to be extra careful.

As we spoke about earlier, white gold is plated in rhodium, when this wears off and the white gold metal mix is exposed, which can irritate sensitive skin, and possibly cause an allergic reaction.

Platinum is a more pure metal and the most hypoallergenic metal used in fine jewelry. Generally speaking, if you have very sensitive skin, have allergies, sensitives, or are worried about such issues, platinum is the expert recommended choice.

Color

While to the untrained eye, white gold and platinum may look the same, they are quite different. Yes, both are members of the “silver” family, however, if you look closely, they are quite unique in their appearance.

Platinum is a naturally white metal, while white gold is more off-white, having a grayish tint due to being made with yellow gold, which is then plated with rhodium to give it its white color. As the rhodium plating fades, white gold’s bright color will fade.

Alternatively, because platinum is naturally bright white and a pure metal, its color will not fade.

Weight

Normally, you NEVER ask someone their weight. But in this case, we’ll allow it, and even recommend it! Platinum is denser and thus heavier than white gold. White gold may be more comfortable for earrings while the weight of a platinum ring may be more bearable.

If you are going for a larger piece, white gold may be the more comfortable way to go.

Platinum Three Stone Pear Shaped Engagement Ring

14K White Gold Cultured Freshwater Pearl And Diamond Row Drop Earrings (6mm)

Popularity

This is a tough one, because white gold and platinum are both incredibly popular. Many people choose both metals for different reasons. In fact, white gold engagement rings are increasingly popular.

14K white gold engagement rings in particular are very popular because of their durability, making them great for a piece that you wear every day.

However, platinum JUST edges out white gold on the popularity scale thanks to its rareness. There is also an association of elegance and luxury with platinum that for many, makes it the popular choice.

Why Choose A White Gold Engagement Ring?

There are a number of reasons to choose a white gold engagement ring: cost, durability, and lifestyle. If you are going for a larger ring, or just prefer a lightweight band, then white gold is the choice for you.

Another reason we have not discussed is pairing, if you are planning to get a white gold wedding ring, then experts advise you to go with a white gold engagement ring. This ensures a seamless, coordinated look. Need some ideas? Check out the options below or go to JamesAllen.com for more!

14K White Gold Petite Pavé Cathedral Engagement Ring

14K White Gold Rope Solitaire Engagement Ring

Why Choose A Platinum Engagement Ring?

If you prefer a brighter color, without replacing any coating, then a platinum engagement ring is the choice for you. Similarly, if you have sensitive skin, or allergies are an issue, then stick to platinum for its hypoallergenic properties.

Platinum is also a great choice if you are going for a more detailed engagement ring, as the metal is the expert choice to highlight intricacies such as milgrain and filigree. Check out these choices for some inspo!

Platinum Falling Edge Pavé Diamond Engagement Ring

Platinum 2mm Knife Edge Solitaire Engagement Ring

FAQs About White Gold vs. Platinum

Can you tell the difference between white gold and platinum?

Yes, but it’s not so easy. White gold has a slightly more grayish color than platinum and is a bit lighter in weight. So can you tell the difference, it really depends on you. How closely are you analyzing the pieces of jewelry, how much of an expert are you, and what are you looking for.

Does platinum lose its shine?

Yes, but not as quickly as white gold and it will not require replating. Platinum will lose its shine over time due to natural wear and tear, however, you can easily regain this shine with a simple cleaning to restore its luster.

Is platinum shinier than white gold?

While white gold and platinum are both shiny and beautiful, white gold is the shinier metal while platinum is the brighter metal due to its purity. Both metals require maintenance to keep their shine.

Is white gold out of style?

White gold is always in style. While it may not always be trendy, this traditional metal for engagement rings makes it a timeless style.

Does white gold fade over time?

In a word, yes. White gold fades over time due to its rhodium plating wearing away. This is easily fixed with replating every few years (replating timeline depends on usage and other elements).

Final Thoughts

There are no rules here, white gold or platinum, you can’t go wrong. You have to consider multiple factors and decide on the best metal for you. Still unsure about which metal to invest in? Contact us at JamesAllen.com and we’ll be happy to answer all your questions.

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Sarah Axelrad

With over 10 years of experience writing and editing on a wide variety of subjects, Sarah is a veteran of the content world. Since joining James Allen, she has focused on all things diamonds and fine jewelry with the goal of educating and empowering consumers.

Beyoncé brushing back her hair while showing off her sparkling diamond engagement ring.

Beyoncé is more than a show-stopping performer; she’s a style icon for this generation and those to come. Her fans love to catch glimmers into her personal life and relationships. So, in 2004, when she and Jay-Z made their red-carpet debut as a couple, not only did their union make perfect sense to the world, but it made their fans ecstatic. Two masters of the arts joining together to become one of Hollywood’s power couples.

Their relationship has spanned over two decades, and while both of them love to put on a show for fans, their private life has always been just that – private.

It came as a huge surprise to fans when they announced their marriage in April 2008. The pair had given no indication that they had been engaged prior, and boy was it impossible to miss the magnificent rock she now wears on her hand.

Beyoncé’s engagement ring is almost as famous as she is, and we’re here to tell you all you need to know about the eye-catching diamond and where to find its lookalikes on JamesAllen.com.

We’re going to share the following fun facts with you:

The style of Beyoncé’s engagement ring
The diamond shape
The diamonds carat size
How much Beyoncé’s engagement ring cost
Beyoncé’s engagement ring lookalikes

Beyoncé’s Engagement Ring Pictures

Beyoncé has been captured with her engagement ring on many glamorous occasions. Our first image, in particular, shows off the giant diamond sparkler perfectly in a zoomed-in shot. She can be seen brushing back her hair with her ring finger on full display.

The second image is of her at an awards ceremony. Here she’s gracefully lifting her hands to show off her diamond ring with a smile.

Beyoncé at an awards ceremony lifting both hands to frame her face while showing off her diamond engagement ring on one hand and an chunky alternative yellow-gold ring on the other hand.

What Style Setting is Beyoncé’s Engagement Ring?

Beyoncé’s engagement ring is an emerald cut diamond, held in place with prongs that are set in a pavé split shank setting. The metal is said to be platinum, an unusual, yet fitting metal for the award-winning artist.

14K White Gold Pavé Split Shank Contour Diamond Engagement Ring

Pavé set diamonds on the band are perfect for extra sparkle and a touch of elegance. It goes beyond the classic solitaire and adds more flair to the ring. If you’re going for a larger center stone, as in Beyoncé’s case, a split shank band will provide additional support to the center diamond. This makes the setting more comfortable and secure for the wearer, particularly if you’re wearing your ring for extended periods of time.

Not only does a split shank band add more support, but it also highlights the glamour of the diamond center with an artful design. These settings can be subtle or dramatic, depending on your individual taste.

What Diamond Shape is Beyoncé’s Engagement Ring?

The center stone on Beyoncé’s engagement ring is an emerald-cut diamond.

A person holding a sea shell above crystal clear water while showing off her diamond engagement ring.

The emerald cut was first worn by royalty making it the perfect fancy-shaped diamond for Queen B. The style is bold and elegant and often gives the wearer the appearance of a slimmer finger because of the elongated cut.

Like other fancy shapes, emerald cuts are excellent at consuming much of the rough diamond’s carat weight. Their shape has trimmed corners, a small feature that brings out an old-school glamour that comes with wearing any emerald-cut diamond.

How Many Carats is Beyoncé’s Engagement Ring?

It’s no secret that Beyoncé’s diamond sparkler is far bigger than the average engagement ring. Jay-Z decided on an enormous 24-carat flawless emerald-cut diamond.

How Much Did Beyoncé’s Ring Cost? And What’s It Really Worth?!

Beyoncé’s engagement ring was designed by Lorraine Schwartz, who is a well-known jewelry designer for celebrities. She is notorious for using only top-quality stones. So it comes as no surprise that the center stone in Beyonce’s ring is a rare flawless diamond. It has no blemishes or inclusions, and the entire engagement ring costs an estimated $5 million.

For comparison, we have this emerald-cut diamond with excellent specifications (D Color, IF Clarity) at James Allen:

Beyoncé’s Engagement Ring Lookalikes

While Beyoncé’s engagement ring is undoubtedly unique and fit for her, there are plenty of other replicas that either fit the diamond shape and setting to meet your own individual style and budget.

You can find a modest replica at James Allen with our showstopping pavé split shank contour diamond engagement ring.

Next, we have a similar style with a slightly classic twist. Our twisted shank has the perfect blend of pavé dazzle and traditional metal to make that center stone pop.

14K White Gold Twisted Pavé Shank Contemporary Diamond Engagement Ring

Finally, we have a modern favorite in our twin pavé crossover shank. This bold and sparkling engagement ring is perfect for a wearer who enjoys multidimensional bling and wants to shine like Beyoncé.

Tag: platinum settings

White Gold Vs. Platinum: What’s The Difference?