White gold is an alloy of pure gold and such metals as silver, nickel or palladium. White gold engagement rings are sometimes plated with rhodium which gives a pale luminescence. However, rhodium coating wears away soon and should be replaced each five years which requires about $50.
White gold is measured in karats. The quality stamp – 9K, 14K or 18K – is placed inside the ring band. While engagement rings with 9K gold is less expensive for the low content of gold (in the ratio 3:5 with alloy metal such as silver), 18K rings contain about 75% pure gold and are considered more elite.
In the USA white gold engagement rings gained their popularity after World War II, due to the lack of platinum which had been the favorite setting before. Women prefer white gold to yellow, as it matches nearly any other piece of jewelry. Though white gold engagement rings aren't so durable as platinum ones, they have their incontestable benefits. Thus, white gold engagement rings are rather cheap (if compared with platinum), which allows to spend more money on a more refined diamond and choose some sophisticated vintage setting. On average white gold is four times cheaper than platinum. In addition, white gold engagement rings are stronger than yellow gold rings, as well as lighter in weight than platinum ones.
However, white gold engagement rings also have some disadvantages that should be taken into account beforehand. For example, if the alloy contains nickel, the ring can cause allergic reaction which includes skin itching, discoloration and swelling while contacting the metal. According to the statistics, around 20% of population is allergic to nickel. Palladium alloy is a good alternative, but such engagement rings cost more.
White gold engagement rings are usually protected against harsh household cleaner and bleach. They should also be removed in swimming pools or hot tubs because of negative impact of chlorine. |